Phuopsis stylosa

The crucianelle or Phuopsis stylosa is a perennial herbaceous plant forming compact spreading clumps with slender light green leaves and a slightly pungent odour. In spring and summer, many flowering stems rise, bearing pretty little pink pompons. Very easy in the garden due to its hardiness and drought tolerance, the crucianelle is a fabulous ground cover plant to use along pathways, on slopes, in flower beds, in well-drained soil and sunny locations.

Phuopsis stylosa belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is native to the Caucasus. It is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial with dense and spreading foliage, reaching 20 cm (8in) in height and 40 cm (16in) in width. Its light green, lanceolate, and sessile leaves are arranged in whorls (at the same level around the stem) in groups of 6 to 10 leaves, giving the crucianelle a graphic uniqueness. Its leaves emit a slightly pungent odour reminiscent of musk. The semi-evergreen foliage can withstand mild winters; otherwise, it regrows in spring. Many flowering stems emerge from the crucianelle, carrying pretty little pink pompons that delight the eyes for an extended period from May to September. The style (part connecting the ovary to the stigma) of the crucianelle is particularly long and prominent, hence its species name, "stylosa".

Plant the crucianelle in spring or autumn, in flower beds, along pathways, on slopes, and in moist and well-drained soil. It can also be grown in pots. It prefers a sunny exposure but tolerates partial shade. Leave at least 40 cm (16in) spacing between plants. Water in case of drought; remove dried foliage in winter. The crucianelle can be propagated by dividing clumps in autumn. However, it naturally produces rooting stems (roots from the stem) and also self-seeds, thus achieving a dense ground cover effect very quickly. Note that this advantage can sometimes become a disadvantage, as it can become invasive and require containment.

The crucianelle will particularly enhance blue, violet, and white flowering. It will find a special place under white-flowered roses or next to purple-blue bugloss to enhance a Stachys byzantine blue-grey colour.

The crucianelle owes its name to the Latin Crucianella, its former genus name. From Crux, meaning cross, it was named so because some species have leaves whorled in fours and arranged in a cross shape.