Olive-Leaved Gromwell (Lithodora Oleifolia)

Olive-Leaved Gromwell

Features and Characteristics

Lithodora oleifolia, commonly known as olive-leaved gromwell, is a prostrate, suckering, evergreen sub-shrub of the borage family. It typically grows to 8” tall spreading to 12” wide. It is native to a few rocky alpine areas in the Eastern Pyrennes. It is primarily noted for producing: (a) oblong to ellilptic-oblong dull dark green leaves (1/2” long) which are silky-white beneath and (b) 5-lobed trumpet-shaped sky-blue flowers (3/8” across) which bloom in early summer in showy 3-7 flowered terminal racemes. Flowers emerge from pink buds.

The Plant List currently lists Lithodora oleifolia as a synonym of Glandora oleifolia.

Genus name comes from the Greek word lythos meaning stone and dorea meaning a gift, presumably in reference to growing habitat in the wild.

Specific epithet means with leaves like olive.

Care and Maintenance

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 6-8 where it is best grown in alkaline to neutral, well-drained soils in full sun. Plants generally dislike the hot and humid summer climates of the deep South. Apply a winter mulch in the northern parts of the growing range. May be propagated by removal of suckers in spring.

Olive-Leaved Gromwell (Lithodora Oleifolia) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No frequently occurring insect or disease problems.

Uses

Specimen or accent for borders or rock gardens. Edger. Rocky banks and slopes.

Olive-Leaved Gromwell (Lithodora Oleifolia) Details

Common name	Olive-Leaved Gromwell
Botanical name	Lithodora Oleifolia
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Boraginaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Sky Blue
Flowering period	June - July
Height	0.50 To 0.75 Feet
Width	0.50 To 1 Ft.