Golden Drop

An eye-catching member of the borage family, Onosma taurica forms a mound of bristly, grey-green leaves. In early summer, it produces arching stems laden with clusters of nodding, tubular, drop-shaped flowers of a vibrant lemon-yellow. The flowers have a subtle, sweet fragrance. It is native to the dry, stony hillsides of South-eastern Europe and Turkey, making it exceptionally drought-tolerant. In the UK, it needs the sunniest, most well-drained spot available; it is particularly suited to being planted in a wall or on top of a steep rockery where water will drain away quickly from its crown. It is sensitive to excessive winter wetness, which can cause the bristly foliage to rot. When provided with the right conditions, it is a spectacular and unusual plant that always draws attention. It is a relatively short-lived perennial but can be easily propagated from cuttings. Its sunny yellow bells provide a long-lasting and prolific display and are loved by bees.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Sharply drained, gritty soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.