Othonna cheirifolia originates from North Africa but, inline other species of this genus, it is hardy to minus 5°c. This makes it a very suitable candidate for a hot, dry, south facing border in a seaside location, or a rockery or for growing in containers. It would partner well with Lampranthus, Osteospermum and other hardier succulents of similar disposition.
This is a new introduction to our website which we imported from France where it is more widely grown than in the UK. O. cheirifolia is a spreading evergreen shrub and, even on arrival as small plants, we were struck by the unusual and attractive appearance of the pale grey-green leaves with their ‘spoon’ shape.
By mid-June the plants produce a profusion of yellow daisy-like flowers on single stalks. These partially close at night but fully open in the sun. The colour contrast between the leaves and flowers is striking.
Our plants have quickly grown to 10-12 inches in height in their first season and we would expect clumps to develop of at least double that size in a favourable location. Waterlogging in winter must be avoided but these are easy plants to get going in full sun.
We have yet to try but this plant will be easy to propagate from basal cuttings in early summer.
(still needs images)