Atractylis gummifera
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −23.3 °C
Cultivation
We have very little information on the cultivation needs of this species, but it succeeds outdoors at Bristol Botanical Gardens, where it flowers and sets viable seed[K]. It is likely to prefer a well-drained soil and a sunny position[K]. It strongly dislikes winter wet[K]. A monocarpic plant, living for a number of years without flowering, but then dying after it does flower.
Propagation
Seed - sow early spring in a greenhouse or cold frame. When large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and grow them on in the cold frame until they are planted out in early summer. Alternatively, the seed can be sown in situ in mid to late spring.
Edible uses
A gum obtained from the plant is used for chewing.
Material uses
A gum obtained from the plant is used as an adulteration for mastic.
Habitat
Field verges and roadsides.
Native range
Mediterranean.
Scientific synonyms Carlina gummifera