How to Grow Marble-leaved Selinum
Selinum wallichianum
Selinum wallichianum is a choice architectural umbellifer valued for its finely-cut dark green foliage and flat white flower heads that appear in late summer. Plant in moist, humus-rich soil in sun or part shade. It establishes slowly but rewards patience with statuesque presence. Leave the structural seed heads standing through autumn and winter for maximum effect. RHS Award of Garden Merit.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring as new growth emerges. Mulch with compost to retain moisture.
Watch For
- Slugs on emerging spring shoots
- Aphids on flower stems
Companions
Persicaria amplexicaulis, Sanguisorba, Molinia grasses, Veronicastrum
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to part shade
Thrives in full sun but tolerates part shade well. Avoid deep shade where flowering is reduced.
Watering
Keep moist; do not allow to dry out
Consistent moisture is important, especially in the first growing season. Mulch generously to retain water.
Fertilizing
Spring feed with balanced fertiliser
Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring. Avoid excess nitrogen which can produce lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Cut back to ground in late winter
Leave stems and seed heads through winter for structural interest, then cut back to ground level in late winter or early spring.
Growing Tips
Moist, rich soil essential
Selinum thrives in moist, humus-rich soil. It will tolerate part shade but performs best in a position with good light and reliable moisture.
Leave seed heads standing
The architectural seed heads are a key winter feature. Leave them standing until late winter or early spring before cutting back.
Slow to establish
Selinum takes a season or two to settle in and reach full stature. Do not be discouraged by slow initial growth.
Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 70 cm |
| Mature height | 125 cm |
| Mature spread | 60 cm |
Architectural umbellifer with finely-cut dark green lacy foliage and flat white flower heads in late summer. Allow room for its bold structural presence.
