Ballota pseudodictamnus
Notify MeBallota pseudodictamnus is a hardy, evergreen perennial shrub prized for its dense, mounding form and soft, felted grey-green foliage. The woolly leaves add year-round texture and subtle contrast to garden plantings, while small, pale pink to purple flowers appear in summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. Its drought tolerance and tidy shape make it a reliable, low-maintenance option for dry, exposed sites.
Ideal for Mediterranean, coastal, gravel, and low-maintenance gardens, it works well as edging, in rockeries, or as a structural filler among more vibrant plants.
Thrives in full sun and prefers free-draining, dry to moderately moist soils. Avoid heavy or waterlogged sites. Space plants approximately 40–50 cm apart to allow for natural mounding growth.
Mature size: Forms a rounded, compact mound approximately 40–60 cm high and wide.
Trimming: Lightly trim in late winter or early spring to maintain its rounded, compact form and encourage fresh silvery growth. Avoid cutting into old wood, as regrowth may be limited.
Deadheading: Not necessary, as it is primarily grown for its soft, woolly foliage rather than its small, inconspicuous flowers.
Fertilising: Minimal feeding required. Apply a light dose of balanced slow-release fertiliser in early spring if grown in very poor soil. Avoid over-fertilising, as this can reduce the plant’s compact shape.
Watering: Drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during the establishment phase, then only during extended dry periods. Overwatering can lead to root issues.
Pest Control: Rarely troubled by pests due to its aromatic foliage. Occasionally check for aphids on new growth; treat with insecticidal soap if needed.
Disease Management: Very low susceptibility to disease. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in heavier soils. Avoid excessive winter wetness to maintain plant health.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
