Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Pretty Carroll'

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Key characteristics

Family: Asteraceae
Height: Up to 16 inches
Width: Up to 16 inches
Flower color: Bright yellow, button-like clusters
Foliage color: Silvery-gray, finely dissected leaves with a feathery appearance
Bloom time: Mid to late summer
Light: Full sun
Water: Drought-tolerant once established
Maintenance: Low; prune in spring to maintain shape and remove dead flowers
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Attracts bees and butterflies; generally avoided by deer and rabbits due to aromatic foliage

Shrubs

Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Pretty Carroll'

Pretty Carroll Lavender Cotton

Santolina chamaecyparissus 'Pretty Carroll' is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its aromatic, finely textured silver-gray foliage that resembles the scales of a cypress tree. In mid to late summer, this cultivar produces small, bright yellow flowers that are borne in clusters, offering a cheerful contrast to its silvery leaves. The plant's dense, mounded habit makes it a great addition to borders or rock gardens.

Light

Full sun

Water

Drought-tolerant once established

Bloom time

Mid to late summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Mediterranean Gardens
Pathways & Walkways
Rock Gardens

Companion plants

Phlox · Pittosporum · Hardy mums · Feather reed grass · Cranesbill · Butterfly bush

Design tip

Plant ‘Pretty Carroll’ into gaps between larger rocks or along the edge of gravel paths, where its compact silver mounds can soften the surrounding stone. The bright yellow summer flowers add small bursts of color without overwhelming the restrained, drought-tolerant planting.