The Story
Plant Bio
Convolvulus cneorum, the silverbush, is a compact, mounding evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. The plant forms a dense, rounded dome of narrow leaves covered in fine, silky hairs that create a shimmering, metallic silver appearance year-round.
In late spring, pink buds open into terminal clusters of white, trumpet-shaped flowers with distinct yellow centers. This species is highly valued in coastal and rock gardens for its exceptional salt tolerance and striking foliage contrast.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
24"
Width
36"
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Shrub
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun with gritty, sandy, or loamy soil that drains rapidly.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and plant at the same depth as the nursery container.
- Water moderately during the first active growing season to establish the root system.
- Apply a light, balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring.
Pro Tip
Prune only the outer third of the green stems immediately after flowering; cutting back into the old, bare wood prevents regrowth and leaves permanent gaps.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in sharply drained, gritty soil to prevent root rot.
- Provide full sun to maintain the dense habit and intense silver foliage color.
- Lightly tip-prune green growth annually after the main flowering flush.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
- Do not prune hard into old, leafless woody stems.
- Do not overwater, especially during periods of high summer humidity.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Silverbush questions
What zones can Silverbush grow in?
Silverbush is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Silverbush bloom?
Silverbush typically blooms in late spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Silverbush need full sun?
Silverbush does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Silverbush drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Silverbush handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Silverbush with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.