Summer Snowflake

Description

Gratiola officinalis (hedge hyssop) is a graceful herbaceous perennial native to Europe and parts of Asia, commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along riverbanks. It produces slender upright stems with narrow leaves and attractive tubular flowers, typically white with a subtle pink or purple tint, blooming throughout summer. This plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and is ideal for pond margins, bog gardens, and naturalistic wetland plantings. It prefers full sun to partial shade and contributes to biodiversity by supporting pollinators. Historically known for its medicinal properties, Gratiola officinalis should be handled with care, as all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested. Despite this, it remains a valuable ornamental species for ecological and water garden settings due to its delicate appearance and adaptability.