Bupleurum fruiticosum

Bupleurum fruticosum is a hardy, evergreen shrub with leathery, blue-green foliage and airy clusters of small yellow-green flowers that appear from mid to late Summer. Native to the Mediterranean, it brings a soft, billowy form to the garden and is excellent for attracting pollinators such as bees and hoverflies.

Ideal for coastal gardens, dry borders, and low-maintenance planting schemes, it complements Mediterranean, naturalistic, and dry-tolerant garden styles.

Plant in full sun with free-draining soil. Highly drought- and wind-tolerant once established. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Space plants 1.2–1.5m apart to allow for mature spread.

Mature size: Grows into a rounded, bushy shrub approximately 1.5–2m tall and wide.

Trimming: Lightly prune after flowering to shape the plant and prevent it from becoming too woody or leggy. A harder prune can be done in early spring to rejuvenate older plants, but avoid cutting into old wood with no visible buds.

Deadheading: Not essential, but removing spent flower heads can help tidy the plant and prevent excessive self-seeding.

Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring. In particularly poor soils, a light top-up in midsummer may support continued vigour, but Bupleurum generally thrives without heavy feeding.

Watering: Water during dry spells, especially while establishing. Once established, this Mediterranean shrub is drought-tolerant and prefers free-draining soil. Avoid overwatering.

Pest Control: Generally pest-free. Occasionally aphids may appear on new growth—use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil if needed.

Disease Management: Very low susceptibility to disease. Ensure good drainage to prevent root issues, and prune lightly to maintain airflow and reduce the risk of fungal problems in dense growth.

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.

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