Gratiola officinalis, known as hedge hyssop and sometimes sold as "summer snowflake", is a low plant with narrow, toothed leaves in opposite pairs. From June to August it carries small white flowers, often tinged or veined pink.

Hedge hyssop at a glance

Botanical name Gratiola officinalis
Common name Hedge hyssop, gratiole
Plant type Low, clump-forming perennial; dies back in winter
Height and spread About 25–40 cm tall, up to 50 cm wide
Flowers White, often tinged or veined pink to purple-red, June to August
Position Full sun or part shade
Soil Boggy or wet soil, or very shallow water
Pond depth 0–5 cm of water over the crown
Hardiness RHS H5 – hardy in a cold winter (-15 to -10°C)
Native to Central and southern Europe (not UK native)

Where to plant hedge hyssop

  • The very shallow edge of a pond, 0–5 cm deep
  • Bog gardens and wet soil
  • Small ponds, where its low size suits

Is it poisonous?

Yes. All parts are poisonous. It was once used as a herbal purgative, and in excess it can cause kidney damage, bowel bleeding and miscarriage. Do not eat it or use it as a herb, keep it away from children and pets, and take particular care if you are pregnant.

How to plant and care for it

Plant in spring or summer in wet soil or very shallow water. It is generally free of pests and diseases.

Which size should I buy?

Bare-root plants (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive without a pot or compost and are the most economical way to plant a group. Potted plants (9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre) arrive growing in our peat-free compost and give a faster display. Packs of 3 come in 7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre and 3 litre bare-root sizes and cost less per plant. The 2x Pot & Compost option is two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Pond depth: 0 - 5cm

Light: Full sun or part shade

Hardiness: Hardy

Height and spread: 20 - 40cm tall, 30 - 50cm wide

Planting and flowering months are shown in the calendar under the photos.

Bare root (7 cm, 9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants sent without a pot or compost, ready to plant straight away. The most economical way to plant a group.

Potted (9 cm, 1 litre, 3 litre): plants growing in our recycled, peat-free compost made in Lincolnshire. Larger sizes give a faster display.

Pack of 3 (7 cm bare-root, 9 cm bare-root, 1 litre bare-root, 3 litre bare-root): three plants of the chosen size at a lower price per plant.

2x Pot & Compost: two plants supplied with pots and compost.

Sizes shown with a line through them are currently unavailable.

At Lincs Plants, we strive to provide fast and reliable shipping to ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition. We offer 1-3 day shipping through a variety of dispatch methods to suit your needs.

Processing Time:
Orders are processed within 1 - 3 business day after payment confirmation. Orders placed on weekends or public holidays will be processed the next business day.

Shipping Methods:

  • Standard Shipping (1-3 days)
  • Express Shipping (1-2 days)

Should you have any questions or concerns about your shipment, feel free to contact us.