Biscutella Frutescens

Biscutella frutescens is an unusual woody-based perennial from the limestone cliffs and rocky mountain ground of southern Spain and north-western Africa. Dense rosettes of softly hairy, silvery leaves produce branching stems of bright yellow, four-petalled flowers in spring and early summer. These are followed by the genus’s characteristic paired, disc-shaped seed pods, which resemble two tiny shields or spectacles. Its sculptural fruits and pale foliage provide interest beyond flowering, making it a distinctive subject for a sunny wall, alpine house or sharply drained limestone bed.