Resembling a miniature armoured sunflower, this intriguing succulent creates architectural impact with its spiky, silvery-blue rosettes that add year-round drama to alpine gardens. Orostachys spinosa forms tight, three-dimensional crowns up to 15cm (6in) across, each composed of short, fleshy leaves with distinctive spiny tips that either curve inward or fan out in a striking radial pattern.
While monocarpic (the main rosette dies back after flowering), this hardy perennial ensures its legacy through offsets that develop before the mature rosettes produce their impressive 20-30cm (8-12in) tall flowering spikes of creamy blooms in late summer.
Though the foliage may appear slightly dishevelled during winter months, spring brings renewed vigour. Success with this alpine gem relies on excellent drainage, particularly during winter months, making it ideal for rock garden crevices and alpine containers with excellent drainage.
Please note that the pot in the photograph is not supplied with the plant (which is sent out in a simple nursery alternative), but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from.