Category:
Home-grown
A very drought-resistant shrub with silvery-grey foliage and violet/pink blooms, ideal for sunny, low-irrigation gardens.
Approx. height
Approx. width
Light
Ideal temp.
Toxicity
Maintenance
Recommended watering
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Our experts say
The cenizo (Leucophyllum frutescens) is a very hardy evergreen shrub, known for its silver-grey foliage and its violet blooms that appear in waves, especially in warm periods. Its appearance is bright and clean: small, velvety leaves that reflect the light and add contrast in Mediterranean-style planting, xeriscaping or low-maintenance gardens.
It grows with a rounded, branching habit and, over time, forms a compact clump that can be kept more structured with light pruning. It is a plant that performs especially well in sunny, dry areas where other species struggle, because it tolerates heat and drought once established. In addition, its flowering often intensifies after periods of moisture or changes in the weather, giving it an unpredictable, highly ornamental quality throughout the year.
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Benefits
Ideal shrub for dry gardens and low-water use.
Silvery grey foliage that adds light and contrast all year round.
Violet flowering in waves, highly decorative, especially in warm weather.
Very good tolerance to drought and high temperatures once established.
Adds structure and volume with minimal maintenance.
Attracts pollinators during flowering.
Adapts well to pots, rockeries and sunny borders, provided there is drainage.
Special care
It needs very free-draining soil; excess water is its main enemy.
Water moderately at first until it establishes roots; afterwards, keep watering light and spaced out.
Place it in direct sun to maintain the silvery colour and encourage flowering.
Avoid hard pruning; a light prune after flowering is better to keep it compact and balance the shape.
Do not over-fertilise: too much nitrogen produces greener leaves and less flowering.
In a pot, use an airy growing medium (with a mineral component) and make sure no water remains in the saucer.
If the environment is humid, space out watering and improve ventilation to prevent root problems.
