Holy Flax Santolina rosmarinifolia subsp. rosmarinifolia 'Primrose Gem'

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Primrose Gem Santolina, Lemon Queen, Green Lavender Cotton

• Common names

  Santolina rosmarinifolia 'Primrose Gem'

Toxicity

• To humans

  Santolina, commonly known as lavender cotton, is generally not considered toxic to humans. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants that are not specifically grown for consumption, as they may cause adverse reactions in certain individuals, such as digestive discomfort or allergic reactions. There is limited information about the ingestion of Santolina rosmarinifolia 'Primrose Gem', specifically, so it is best to err on the side of caution and not consume any parts of the plant.

• To pets

  Lavender cotton, the common name for Santolina, is not known to be toxic to pets. However, as with humans, it is not intended for consumption, so pets should be discouraged from eating the plant. Some animals might experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest plants that are not part of their normal diet. To ensure the safety of pets, it is best to keep any garden plants out of their reach, especially if the toxicity of a specific cultivar, such as Santolina rosmarinifolia 'Primrose Gem', is not well documented.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Spread

  1-2 feet (30-60 cm)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  Mediterranean

General Benefits

• Drought resistance: Capable of surviving in dry conditions once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Low maintenance: Requires minimal care, making it a good choice for gardeners with limited time.
• Attractive foliage: Features fine, needle-like leaves that add texture to garden designs.
• Long blooming period: Produces bright yellow flowers that offer visual appeal throughout a lengthy season.
• Deer resistance: Generally not preferred by deer, which helps prevent browsing damage in gardens prone to deer visits.
• Ground cover: Grows in a dense form, which can cover bare spots and suppress weeds.
• Border planting: Suitable for edges and borders due to its compact shape and interesting foliage.
• Pest resistance: Not commonly affected by garden pests, which contributes to its ease of care.
• Aromatic: Releases a pleasant aroma when its leaves are brushed, adding a sensory dimension to the garden.
• Evergreen: Retains its leaves throughout the year, providing year-round interest and color in the garden.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Santolina, also known as Lavender Cotton, can be used in potpourri for its aromatic leaves. The foliage retains a pleasant smell even after drying.
• The dense, small-sized foliage of Lavender Cotton makes it an excellent option for creating intricate knot gardens and other formal garden designs.
• Lavender Cotton can be used as a natural dye, providing a greenish-yellow hue to fabrics and yarns when used in the dyeing process.
• The woodsy, herbal scent of Lavender Cotton acts as a natural moth repellent, making it useful when stored among woolen clothes.
• Gardeners can use Lavender Cotton as a low hedge or edging plant, providing a neat border for garden beds and paths.
• Incorporating Lavender Cotton into floral arrangements can add a touch of greenery and a fresh, herby fragrance to the bouquet.
• The compact growth habit of Lavender Cotton makes it a suitable ground cover for rockeries and dry slopes, where it helps control soil erosion.
• Use dried Lavender Cotton leaves as an ingredient in homemade sachets, which can be placed in drawers or closets for a fresh scent.
• Lavender Cotton can be crafted into small wreaths or decorative bundles, adding a rustic, herbal aesthetic to home decor.
• When planning a garden with sensory appeal, the soft, textured leaves of Lavender Cotton provide a tactile experience for visitors.

Feng Shui

The Green Santolina is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Green Santolina is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: Santolina, often known as Lavender Cotton, has been considered a protective plant. In traditional herb gardens, it was believed to ward off insects and has also been used in sachets to protect woolens from moths.
• Healing: With its silver-green foliage and traditional use in medicinal remedies, Lavender Cotton symbolizes healing properties. It was historically used for its antiseptic qualities and as a digestive aid.
• Purity: The color of 'Primrose Gem', a soft yellow, is often associated with purity, and this cultivar of Lavender Cotton might symbolize cleanliness and innocence thanks to its bright and clear hue.
• Longevity: Lavender Cotton represents longevity as it is an evergreen perennial that can survive and maintain its foliage even through harsh winters, symbolizing persistence and resilience over time.