Gerald L. Klingaman
Family
Plumbaginaceae
Botanical Name
Goniolimon tataricum
Plant Common Name
Statice, Tartarian Statice
General Description
Forming rounded rosettes of gray-green leaves with white spots, Tartarian statice produces dense, architectural flower stems that are desirable for both fresh and dried cutflower arrangements. This herbaceous perennial is native to southeastern Europe, including the highlands of the Caucasus and southern Russia.
The long, tongue-like, light gray-green leaves form a basal rosette. Though low-growing, the clumps of leaves are quite attractive in their own right. In mid to late summer, flower stems rise from the center of the leaves to form short, dense branches covered with tiny, papery, white flowers with red innermost petals. The insect pollinated flowers result in silvery-tan fruits that are visually interesting.
Grow Tartarian statice in full or nearly full sun exposures and sandy soils with moderate organic matter. The soil must also have good drainage. Tolerant of both winter cold and summer heat, this status flowers best in where summers are warm and somewhat dry. Wonderful airy flowers make this perennial a must-have for cutting or cottage gardens, including those near the seaside.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
10 - 5
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USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 10
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Plant Type
Perennial
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun
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Height
10"-18" / 25.4cm - 45.7cm
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Width
12"-20" / 30.5cm - 50.8cm
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Bloom Time
Late Spring, Early Summer, Summer
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Native To
Eastern Europe, Southern Europe, Russia/Siberia, Turkey
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Showy
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Flower Color
White, Red
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Flower Color Modifier
Bicolor
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Fruit Color
Brown
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green, Gray Green
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Foliage Color (Spring) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Gray Green
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Foliage Color (Summer) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green, Gray Green
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Foliage Color (Fall) Modifier
Spotted/Mottled
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Medium
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
No
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Cutflower, Dried Flower/Everlasting, Edging, Mixed Border, Rock Garden / Wall, Wildflower
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Butterflies
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Self-Sowing
Yes