Family:	Scrophulariaceae
Genus:	Zaluzianskya
Species:	ovata
Common name:	night phlox
Height:	0.2m
Spread:	0.2m
RHS AGM

Native to South Africa.

Genus named for botanist Adam Zaluziansky von Zaluzian (1558-1613); species name ‘ovata‘ means ‘egg-shaped’.

A small tender evergreen alpine, forming a clump of aromatic foliage and tiny flowers that give out a powerful fragrance in the evening. Grows up to 20cm in height and width.

Evergreen leaves are a fresh green, ovate with undulated margins at the apex and held in opposite pairs around the stem. They are resinous; the surface is slightly sticky, and when rubbed, smells ‘green’, rather like lettuce; neither pleasant nor unpleasant.

In May and June, bears tiny white flowers of five petals, each split almost in two, arranged around a yellow centre. The petals are crimson on the reverse, and it is this that is seen during the day as the flowers remain closed, looking like matchheads. Once the evening cools, the flowers open, releasing a rich, strong perfume.

Best in full sun, will tolerate light shade but may become leggy, and fragrance will not be as powerful. Fragrance will be optimised in a sheltered position. A typical alpine plant; needs rich soil with very good drainage, but not tolerant of drought so keep well watered.

Cut back hard after flowering to keep a good shape and avoid legginess. Generally free of diseases, but may be troubled by aphids.

A short-lived perennial, so regular cuttings should be taken as replacements. Cuttings can be taken in summer from non-flowering shoots, placed in a sandy compost.

Best grown in pots (looks good in terracotta) so it can be moved around; can be grouped together with other alpines or with succulents, but once in flower, its strong evening scent means that it should be positioned near the house or outside seating area. It can then be moved inside to overwinter.