Silver Bush
Convolvulus cneorum
An evergreen subshrub recognized for its distinctive silvery-gray, silky foliage arranged in terminal clusters and delicate white or pale pink flowers.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal foliage color and flowering.
- Water
- Low watering needs once established. Highly drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently, and avoid overwatering or standing water.
- Growth
- Perennial evergreen subshrub forming a dense, rounded mound. Typically reaches a mature height and spread of 2 to 4 feet with a moderate growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun exposure and plant in very well-draining soil. Water sparingly once established, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Fertilizer is generally not required and may reduce flowering if applied heavily.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal foliage color and flowering.
Watering
Low watering needs once established. Highly drought-tolerant. Water deeply but infrequently, and avoid overwatering or standing water.
Soil
Requires sharp, fast-draining soil, preferably sandy or stony loam. Tolerates poor nutrient levels and prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels (6.0 to 7.5).
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 8 through 11. It prefers mild winter climates and needs winter protection or container cultivation in colder regions.
Growth habit
Perennial evergreen subshrub forming a dense, rounded mound. Typically reaches a mature height and spread of 2 to 4 feet with a moderate growth rate.
Bloom season
Blooms from late spring through summer, producing funnel-shaped white flowers with yellowish throats.
Propagation
Propagated primarily through semi-ripe stem cuttings taken in late spring or summer, or occasionally from seeds.
Common pests & issues
Generally resistant to serious pests and diseases. The most common problem is root rot caused by poor soil drainage or excessive moisture.
Similar species
Other silvery foliage plants like Artemisia or Senecio species, but distinguished by its smooth, silky lanceolate leaves and morning-glory-like funnel-shaped flowers characteristic of the Convolvulus genus.