Spiny Restharrow

(Ononis spinosa subsp. procurrens)

Spiny Restharrow (Ononis spinosa subsp. procurrens)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 23" - 40"
High Temp. 68°F - 77°F
Low Temp. 27°F - 35°F

Summary

Ononis spinosa subsp. procurrens, commonly known as Restharrow, is a deciduous subshrub native to a range of habitats including grasslands, roadsides, dry pastures, and heathlands across Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It has a slow growth rate and typically reaches a height of 0.5-1.5 feet (0.15-0.5 meters) with a width of 1.5-2 feet (0.5-0.6 meters). The plant features small, spiny branches and trifoliate leaves, with pink pea-like flowers that bloom in the summer and are moderately showy. The flowers are followed by seed pods that are also characteristic of the Fabaceae family.

Restharrow is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in wildflower meadows, rock gardens, and as ground cover due to its low stature and spreading habit. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and grows best in well-drained clay, loam, or sandy soils. It is relatively low-maintenance. However, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and may spread in some regions due to its robust seed production and spreading roots. Gardeners should monitor its growth to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Grasslands, roadsides, dry pastures, and heathlands across Europe and North Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Prostrate Restharrow, Spiny Restharrow

Scientific Names: Ononis spinosa subsp. procurrens, Ononis arvensis subsp. maritima, Ononis arvensis var. repens, Ononis brachystachya, Ononis caduca, Ononis carnea, Ononis maritima, Ononis maritima, Ononis miniana, Ononis occidentalis

GBIF Accepted Name: Ononis spinosa subsp. procurrens