Genus: Ebenus

Common Names: n/a

A genus of 21 accepted species of flowering plants in the pea family. The genus as a whole is rarely cultivated but E. cretica is available from several specialist nurseries and seed exchanges.

Distribution: from the E. Mediterranean Basin to S. Asia and Northern Africa

Ebenus cretica

Common name(s): Cretan ebony

Description: semi-evergreen shrub; finely divided, silky gray leaves and large conical pink flowers in late spring. Requires near-perfect drainage (ideally, rocky/sandy soil) to thrive.

Height:  to 2 ft. Spread: to 3 ft.

Position: full sun and lean, well-draining soil

Uses: ornamental, to attract pollinators

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Drought: adapted to 5 months of summer drought

Distribution: Crete