Tolmiea : The ornamental shrub

Gardeners are taking notice of the rare Tolmiea plant. This pretty shrub grows outdoors and spruces up any space. You can also plant it in pots for terraces or porches.

Tolmiea, also called "hen and chicks," belongs to the Saxifraga family. Tolmiea menziesii is its only tough, evergreen type.

Tolmiea thrives in North American woods.

Tolmiea is a leafy plant with stems up to 50 cm long. Its leaves are light green and fuzzy. The Variegated type has yellow spots or cream patterns.


Tolmiea's tiny flowers are light green with red tints. They grow in spikes from January to December. It blooms all year long.

Tolmiea blends well with other easy-care plants. Use it in pots on patios or balconies. It also looks nice on windowsills or tables.

This plant likes good soil that drains well and isn't too acidic. In gardens, use loamy or sandy soil. For pots, mix garden soil or sand and peat with fertilizer.

Tolmiea does fine in sun, part shade, or full shade.

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