Halimium are closely related to Helianthemum, Cistus and x Halimocistus. They originate in the western Mediterranean and are low spreading shrubs which require dry conditions, good drainage and full sun. Although they are reasonably frost hardy they can easily be damaged by a severe frost or in strong east winds and therefore require as much protection as you can possibly give them. The long hot dry summer of 2018 was ideal for producing the best from these plants but they can be short lived and can soon become scruffy with bare centres after a cold winter. It is sensible therefore to prepare for the worst by taking semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or to preserve the seed over winter for sowing in the spring. While these plants are often readily available at garden centres it is best to produce them yourselves.
H. calycinum (H. libanotis) has a semi-erect habit with linear leaves and golden yellow flowers in profusion from June onwards. H. ‘Susan’ is a spreading shrub with oval grey-green leaves and bright yellow flowers with bold reddish-brown centres in terminal panicles. Both grow to around 18in in height with a larger spread.
So these are plants best suited to the rock garden or to the front edges of a seaside border. They are best planted in quantity rather than singly for the best effect. They do well in containers on a patio. However Halimium very much dislike being dug up and moved even as small plants and this should be avoided.
