Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender cotton)

USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–9

Light: Full sun

Mature Size: 12–24" tall | 24–36" wide

Attracts: Bees and pollinators

Bloom Time: Mid–late summer (July–August)

Water Needs: Low once established

Soil: Gritty, lean, sharply well-drained soils

Growth Habit: Compact, mounding evergreen subshrub

Flowers: Bright yellow button-like blooms rise above aromatic silvery-gray foliage in summer

Ideal For: Xeriscapes, rock gardens, herb gardens, edging, Mediterranean gardens, low-water landscapes

Evergreen: Yes

Why We Love It:
Lavender cotton brings soft silver texture and structure to the garden year-round. Its finely divided aromatic foliage creates beautiful contrast against stone, gravel, and darker green plants, while the cheerful yellow flowers add a bright pop of summer color. Tough, drought tolerant, and perfectly suited for dry sunny conditions, it’s an easy choice for Mediterranean-style and water-wise landscapes where foliage texture is just as important as bloom.

Additional Info:
Native to the Mediterranean region, this evergreen subshrub thrives in lean, gritty soils with excellent drainage and performs best in dry conditions. Avoid overly rich or wet soils, especially during winter. Light trimming in spring helps maintain a dense, compact form. Historically, the fragrant foliage was used as a natural moth and insect repellent.