How to Grow Silver Bush
Convolvulus cneorum
Silver Bush thrives in full sun and sharply drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. Plant in a sheltered spot — against a south- or west-facing wall is ideal in the UK. Water sparingly once established; it is drought-tolerant but will rot in wet soil. Trim lightly after flowering to keep it compact. Provide a dry mulch at the base in autumn in cold areas.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Light balanced feed in early spring. Avoid rich nitrogen feeds — they promote leggy growth at the expense of flowers.
Watch For
- Aphids on new shoots
- Red spider mite in hot dry conditions
- Root rot in wet or poorly drained soil
- Frost damage to shoots in cold wet winters
Companions
Lavender, Cistus, Rosemary, Thyme, Artemisia
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun
Requires at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. In the UK, a south- or west-facing position gives best results. Shade causes lax, leggy growth and reduces flowering.
Watering
Low — drought-tolerant once established
Water regularly in the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, water sparingly — it is drought-tolerant and dislikes sitting in wet soil. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of plant loss.
Fertilizing
Light balanced feed in spring only
A light application of balanced fertiliser in early spring is sufficient. Avoid nitrogen-heavy feeds which promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Rich soil is not needed.
Pruning
Light trim after main flowering
Trim back lightly after the main flowering flush in summer to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Do not cut into old wood. Remove any frost-damaged shoots in spring once the risk of frost has passed.
