Thrift 'Splendens' (Armeria maritima)
A tough, resilient, and charming evergreen perennial, Thrift or Sea Pink is a familiar sight in coastal areas. 'Splendens' is a particularly fine selection, forming neat, dense, tussock-like cushions of fine, grassy, deep green foliage. From late spring into early summer, these tidy mounds are topped by a profusion of slender, leafless stems, each carrying a perfect, globe-shaped flower head. The flowers are a vibrant, deep rose-pink and are held well above the foliage, creating a delightful 'drumstick' effect. This plant is incredibly tolerant of salt spray, wind, and poor, sandy soils, making it an essential plant for coastal gardens. It is also perfect for rockeries, gravel gardens, or for edging a sunny, well-drained border, where it will provide long-lasting colour with minimal fuss.
| Botanical name | Armeria maritima 'Splendens' |
| Flower colour | Deep rose-pink |
| Established height | 15-20 cm |
| Established spread | 25-30 cm |
| Plant spacing | 7-9 plants per m² |
| Leaf colour | Grass-like, deep green |
| Habit | Cushion-forming, mound-forming |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Hardiness | Fully Hardy (H6) |
| Years to establish | 1st year |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Position | Exposed |
| Suitable for | Rockeries, Gravel gardens, Coastal gardens, Border edging, Containers |
| Soil acidity | Any |
| Soil moisture | Well-drained |
| Soil type | Sandy, Chalky, Loam |
| RHS Award (AGM) | Yes |
| Growing skill | Easy to grow |
| Pollinator-friendly | Yes |
| Deer resistant | Yes |
Planting and Flowering Calendar
Key Features
Packed in paper
Packed peat-free
Great for Shade
Attracts wildlife
Drought tolerant
RHS Award (AGM)
Perfect for pots

