Smyrnium perfoliatum (Perfoliate Alexanders)

Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Smyrnium perfoliatum Common Name: Perfoliate Alexanders Genus: Smyrnium
This spring bloomer produces bright chartreuse floral domes atop bract-like, rounded leaves that are pierced by the flower's stem. This plant's form and color contrast well with spring bulbs. It grows 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Let it regenerate itself by self-sowing. It is a biennial or short-lived perennial that makes an excellent cut flower and produces worthy combinations with neighboring shades of maroons and blues. Grow it in large, mixed borders, naturalistic plantings, and open woodlands.
Care: Provide moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade.
Propagation: Sow seed in a cold frame in late winter or direct-sow in fall or early spring. (Seeds need a cold treatment to promote germination.)
Problems: Infrequent.
Height 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Growth Pace Moderate Grower
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance Moderate
Characteristics Attracts Butterflies; Self Seeds; Showy Flowers; Showy Foliage; Showy Seed Heads
Bloom Time Spring
Foliage Color Colorful/Burgundy Foliage
Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Naturalizing
Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden, Woodland Garden
Seasonal Interest Spring Interest, Summer Interest
Type Perennials

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