Description

Andrachne

There are about 12 species of perennials, sub shrubs, or semi-evergreen shrubs from the Americas, Africa, and Asia, in this genus.  They produce simple leaves.  Male flowers occur in cluster and have petals that give the flower heads color.  Female flower occur singly and have no petals.  Some species have minor medicinal uses and ingredients in natural pesticides.

Requirements vary considerably with the each species.  Most are quite frost hardy but their moisture and soil needs differ pending on origins.  Trim after flowering and plant in full sun.

Andrachne colchia – Caucasian Spurge – This upright, spreading perennial, which can become a small shrub derives from Western Asia.  It’s densely twiggy shrub reaching 24” tall.  The 1” long leaves have a light texture thickened along the edges.  This species likes damp conditions and will not tolerate dry conditions.

Zones 6-9