Bupleurum Rotundifolium Grow in Decorative Yellowish-Green Umbels
The stems appear to pierce the cucumber-shaped leaves which are green with a blue sheen caused by the layer of protective wax. The plant grows somewhat tenuously to about 24 in tall and flowers from June to August. The small flowers are not in themselves very striking, but they grow in decorative yellowish-green umbels. The restrained colors of foliage and flowers have made bu-pleurum one of the most popular plants in the art of flower arrangement. The stems are used as fillers and form a lovely background to many other cut flowers.
The same effect is created in a border including bupleurum. Other plants show up better alongside its blue and yellowish greenery. Sow bupleurum directly out-of-doors in March-April or, alternatively, in autumn, because the plant will tolerate temperatures as low as 5 °F in dry soil. It grows best in loose soil that is not excessively wet, and amidst other plants that are able to give its thin stems some support.
Bupleurum adapts well to growing in a seashore garden. Although the species has naturalized in other parts of the USA, there are no reports of this plant being a problem in the Pacific Northwest. This annual is easy to start from seed, either by sowing seeds in the garden or ahead of time indoors. When transplanting space plants 12 inches apart, being careful not to disturb the roots. For cut flowers, provide support for straighter stems.
