Sideritis canariensis
Care, watering, light and tips for Sideritis canariensis on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Lamiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
About Sideritis canariensis
Sideritis canariensis, also known as Canary Island ironwort or rock tea, is a perennial shrub endemic to the Canary Islands. It is characterized by its soft, velvety, silvery-green leaves and its spikes of yellow or whitish flowers that appear in spring and summer. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens, sunny borders, or as a low-maintenance ornamental plant in pots.
Native range
Canary Islands
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very susceptible to overwatering. Use a well-drained substrate, preferably sandy or with good perlite content. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Sideritis canariensis
- Warning signs
- Wilting or yellowing leaves, soft stems. Base may rot if overwatered.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves/stems. Check soil; if wet, let dry. If dry, water lightly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter, and lack of direct sunlight.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. With good drainage and sun, it recovers. Propagate cuttings if damage is severe.