Raphiolepsis Ballerina

• Native to East Asia, Raphiolepsis has become a beloved garden staple across Australia for its reliable performance and low maintenance requirements.
• Features small, fragrant pink flowers in spring that cover the entire plant, followed by dark berries that birds love.
• Grows as a dense, rounded shrub with leathery evergreen leaves that provide year-round structure and interest in the garden.
• Popular choice for coastal gardens as it tolerates salt spray and windy conditions better than many flowering shrubs.
• Ballerina variety is particularly prized for its compact size and profuse flowering habit, making it perfect for smaller gardens.

• Water weekly during first year, then reduce to fortnightly or monthly depending on rainfall. Deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root development.
• Position in full sun for maximum flowering, though tolerates morning shade in extremely hot regions. Needs at least 5 hours direct sunlight daily.
• Plant in well-draining soil, adding compost if clay-heavy. Avoid rich, moisture-retentive soils that can cause root problems.
• Feed with slow-release native plant fertiliser in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers that promote leaf growth over flowers.
• Prune lightly after flowering finishes, removing spent blooms and shaping as needed. Heavy pruning reduces next year's flower display.
• Mulch with organic matter to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, especially important during hot Australian summers.

• Plant in full sun to partial shade for best flowering, though morning sun with afternoon protection works well in hot climates. At least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight encourages abundant blooms.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. New plantings need regular moisture for the first growing season.
• Prefers well-draining soil and tolerates poor conditions once established. Add compost when planting but avoid over-fertilising which reduces flowering.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flowers to prolong the blooming period.
• Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the stem.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and weakening. Treat with horticultural oil or systemic insecticide, applying in cooler parts of the day.
• Leaf spot diseases may occur in humid conditions or with overhead watering. Improve air circulation and water at soil level to prevent spread.
• Root rot develops from waterlogged soil or poor drainage. Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering frequency if leaves turn yellow and drop.
• Aphids sometimes cluster on new growth tips in spring. Spray off with strong water jet or apply insecticidal soap for persistent infestations.