Crambe cordifolia (Colewort)


Botanical Information

FamilyBrassicaceae
GenusCrambe
Speciescordifolia
CategoryPerennials
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7b - 8a
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone7b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5 (Observed growing well in H7 in a protected location)
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 to -10
Temperature (°F)5 - 14
Height1.2-1.8 m
Spread60-90 cm
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodJune

Description and Growing Information

LandscapeThis architectural plant can be used in the mid section of the border or in the back, either as a focal plant or in larger grouping if space is available.
PropagationFrom seed; direct sow outdoors in autumn or winter sow in containers in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse. Pencil thick root cuttings in early spring also work.
CultivationIt is easy to grow in any soil, in light shade or sun.
HabitatCaucasus region, Afganistan and Iran.
Leaf DescriptionThe heart-shaped leaves are large, 50 cm across and coarse. They form a massive, dark green rosette.
Flower DescriptionIn the early summer, 2 - 3 tall flowering stalks appear bearing numerous white flowers. When in flower, Crambe cordifolia looks like a spectacular white cloud suspended above the leaves.

Photographs