Bupleurum 'Griffithii' Seeds (Hare's Ear)

Bupleurum rotundifolium 'Griffithii', known as Hare's Ear, is the unsung hero of the cutting patch. It looks remarkably like Eucalyptus, but it is actually an easy-to-grow annual that adds a splash of zingy, fresh lime green to the garden.

It produces wiry stems threaded through rounded leaves (perfoliate foliage) and topped with sprays of tiny, chartreuse-yellow flowers. It creates an airy, architectural "sparkle" that lifts every other colour in the border, making pinks look brighter and purples look richer.

Why Your Garden Needs Bupleurum

If you enjoy arranging flowers, this plant is essential. Florists love it because it acts as the perfect "filler," adding bulk and structure to a vase without being heavy. It has an incredible vase life, often outlasting the main focal flowers.

In the garden, it mimics the look of Euphorbia but without the perennial commitment. It weaves its way through other plants, knitting the border together with its fresh, modern green tones.

Understanding the Plant: What is a Hardy Annual?

Bupleurum is a Hardy Annual.

This means it completes its life cycle in one year. Because it is "Hardy," it can withstand the cold. You can sow it in spring for summer flowers, or—for the tallest, strongest stems—sow it in autumn. The seedlings will develop strong roots over winter and burst into growth early in the spring.

Growing Guide: How to Sow and Grow

Bupleurum is easy, but it has one very specific requirement for germination that you must not ignore!

🌱 Germination (The Dark Trick):
These seeds need darkness to germinate. When you sow them (either in trays or outdoors), make sure they are fully covered with a layer of soil or vermiculite. If they are exposed to light, they will refuse to wake up. They also prefer cool temperatures (13-16°C), so don't put them in a hot propagator.

Where to Sow:
You can sow indoors in spring, but they can be a little fussy about having their roots disturbed. I prefer to sow direct into the garden soil in April, or sow into deep modules (root trainers) so you can plant them out without breaking the root ball.

Care While Growing:
Plant out in a sunny spot. They are reasonably drought tolerant but appreciate water during dry spells to keep the stems long. They can grow quite tall, so planting them close to other plants helps them support each other.

Plant Specifications

Here is a quick reference guide to the key features, helping you decide if this architectural gem is the right fit for your garden.

My Recommended Garden Companions

Lime green is the great harmoniser in the garden. It looks fantastic when paired with cool blues and clean whites. Here are my top pairings from the shop:

• 💙 Cornflowers (Blue): The electric blue of cornflowers against the acid-green of Bupleurum is one of the most striking combinations you can grow. It looks fresh, modern, and vibrant.
• ☁️ Ammi majus (Bishop's Flower): Combining the white lace of Ammi with the green architecture of Bupleurum creates the ultimate "foliage backdrop" for any bouquet.

📅 Sowing & Flowering Calendar

Sow in spring for summer flowers, or in autumn for stronger, earlier plants next year.

(↔️ Swipe chart to see all months)