Santolina virens (Oliver) - Mediterranean shrub with an olive aroma

Santolina virens (common synonyms: Santolina viridis, Santolina rosmarinifolia), commonly known as olive herb, green santolina, Olivenkraut, or green lavender cotton, is an evergreen Mediterranean subshrub valued for its green, aromatic foliage and button-shaped yellow flowers.

The name “Oliver” comes from the scent of the leaves, which evokes olives, bergamot, and resin. Unlike Santolina chamaecyparissus (cotton lavender), which has silvery foliage, this variety has fine green leaves resembling rosemary. It forms a dense, rounded bush 30–60 cm tall. In summer, it produces spherical yellow flower heads on slender stems above the foliage.

Main characteristics:

• Evergreen, green, aromatic foliage (olive scent)
• Yellow, button-shaped flowers in summer
• Compact, ground-covering bush
• Drought-tolerant once established
• Size: 30–60 cm tall

Easy care:

• Light: full sun. Essential for a compact shape and flowering.
• Temperature: moderately frost-hardy (approx. -12…-15°C). In areas with wet winters, good drainage is more important than frost itself.
• Watering: low. Once established, it tolerates drought well. Excess water is the main risk.
• Soil: poor, sandy, or rocky, and very well drained. It does not like heavy, wet soils.
• Pruning: prune after flowering or in spring to prevent the base from becoming bare.

Recommended substrate:
For planting in a pot or improving garden soil, use a light, well-drained potting mix.
→ Premium universal potting soil (Netherlands) - Secret Garden

Uses:
Excellent for Mediterranean gardens, rock gardens, low borders, patio pots, and succulent gardens. The aromatic leaves can be used in small quantities in cooking (salads, oils, rice), while the dried flowers can be used in arrangements. It repels deer and insects due to its strong scent.

Note: Do not confuse it with Santolina chamaecyparissus (cotton lavender), which has silvery foliage. Santolina Oliver / virens is the green variety, with an olive scent. In wet soil or shade, the bush becomes sparse and may rot.

An easy-care, aromatic Mediterranean subshrub, suitable for sunny, dry locations.

⚠️ For maximum aroma, harvest the leaves on sunny days after the dew has evaporated.

Height including pot: approx. 15–25 cm

The plant's appearance and size vary depending on the season, leaf maturity, pruning, etc..