Westringia Fruticosa

• Native to coastal areas of eastern Australia, particularly thriving in sandy soils and salt-laden environments. Naturally occurs from Queensland to Victoria along coastal headlands.
• Features small, narrow grey-green leaves arranged in whorls around sturdy stems. Produces tiny white flowers with purple spots continuously throughout the year.
• Grows as a dense, rounded shrub with a naturally neat habit requiring minimal pruning. Extremely drought tolerant once established in the landscape.
• Beloved by gardeners for its reliability in harsh coastal conditions and low maintenance requirements. Attracts native bees and butterflies to the garden.

• Water deeply once weekly during establishment, then reduce to monthly watering once roots are established. Increase slightly during extended dry periods in summer.
• Position in full sun to partial shade locations with good air movement. Protect from strong afternoon sun in extremely hot inland areas.
• Plant in sandy, well-draining soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Add coarse sand to heavy clay soils to improve drainage.
• Apply low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which can reduce flowering.
• Trim lightly after main flowering flush to maintain compact shape. Remove any dead or damaged branches throughout the year.
• Requires minimal humidity and tolerates dry air well. Avoid overwatering during humid summer conditions to prevent fungal issues.

• Provide full sun to partial shade for best flowering and compact growth habit. Morning sun with afternoon shade works well in hot inland areas.
• Water deeply but infrequently once established, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter months.
• Plant in well-draining sandy or loamy soil with good air circulation. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain moisture.
• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. Avoid hard pruning as recovery can be slow.
• Feed with slow-release native plant fertiliser in early spring for healthy growth and abundant flowering.

• Scale insects can attach to stems and leaves, causing yellowing and weak growth. Treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap applied every 10 days until cleared.
• Root rot develops in waterlogged soils, causing wilting and yellowing despite moist soil. Improve drainage immediately and reduce watering frequency.
• Aphids may cluster on new growth tips during spring, causing distorted leaves. Spray off with strong water jet or apply neem oil solution.
• Fungal leaf spots appear as brown patches in humid conditions. Increase air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent spread.