Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Lemon Queen'
Lemon Queen Lavender Cotton
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Height
- 1 to 2 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Pale yellow, button-like blooms
- Foliage color
- Gray-green with a fine, feathery texture
- Bloom time
- Summer
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Maintenance
- Low; prune back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Lemon Queen' is a compact, evergreen shrub celebrated for its finely textured, aromatic foliage and cheerful yellow blooms. The soft, silvery-green leaves provide year-round interest, while the plant bursts into flower during the summer months. The rounded, button-like flowers, in a pale lemon-yellow shade, appear from late spring through midsummer, creating a delightful contrast with the foliage.
Originating in the Mediterranean region, Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Lemon Queen' is well-suited to warm, sunny climates. Its drought tolerance and adaptability have made it a favorite for Mediterranean-style gardens, rockeries, and borders. Beyond its ornamental appeal, the plant's fragrant foliage has been traditionally used for herbal and crafting purposes, adding to its versatility.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Mediterranean Gardens · Waterwise Gardens · Rock Gardens
Companion plants
Salvias · Bottlebrush · Blazing star · Maiden grass · Candytuft · Daisy bush
Design tip
Repeat ‘Lemon Queen’ along a sunny path or low border to create a soft rhythm of silvery foliage punctuated by pale yellow flowers in summer. Its compact, rounded form gives the repetition enough structure to feel intentional without becoming overly formal.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden.
