Cretan hemp 20/40cm (2L)

Cretan Hemp – Datisca cannabina is a striking herbaceous perennial that brings architectural presence and unusual foliage to gardens. Despite its common name, this plant is not related to true hemp but earns its moniker from the deeply divided, cannabis-like leaves that create a bold textural effect throughout the growing season. Native to the eastern Mediterranean and parts of Asia, this fascinating plant thrives in British conditions, offering gardeners something genuinely different from the usual border perennials.

The foliage of Datisca cannabina emerges in spring with fresh green compound leaves that can reach impressive proportions as the season progresses. Each leaf is pinnately divided into narrow, toothed leaflets that give the plant a feathery, almost tropical appearance. The stems are robust and upright, creating a substantial clump that adds vertical interest to planting schemes. During summer, small greenish-yellow flowers appear in drooping racemes, though it is primarily grown for its distinctive foliage rather than floral display.

This perennial performs best in moisture-retentive soil that doesn’t dry out completely during summer months. It naturally occurs along streamsides and damp meadows in its native habitat, so incorporating it near ponds, bog gardens, or in borders with consistent moisture will yield the best results. Datisca cannabina tolerates full sun to partial shade, though in warmer gardens, some afternoon shade helps prevent leaf scorch during hot spells.

The architectural quality of Cretan Hemp makes it an excellent choice for the middle to back of herbaceous borders, where its height and form can be appreciated. It combines beautifully with other moisture-loving perennials such as ligularias, rodgersias, and astilbes, creating a lush, layered effect. The plant dies back completely in winter, re-emerging reliably each spring to repeat its impressive display.

Cultivation is straightforward once the moisture requirements are met. Apply a generous mulch of organic matter around the base in spring to help retain soil moisture and provide nutrients as it breaks down. During prolonged dry periods, water deeply to maintain consistent soil conditions. The plant rarely requires staking despite its height, as the stems are naturally sturdy. Cut back dead growth in late autumn or early spring before new shoots emerge.

Datisca cannabina is generally pest and disease free, making it a low-maintenance addition once established. It can be propagated by division in spring or from seed, though division of established clumps provides the quickest results. This is a plant for gardeners seeking something unusual and conversation-worthy, offering bold foliage and easy care in return for a spot with adequate moisture.

Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres

Time to ultimate height
2–5 years

Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.