Family: Cunoniaceae

This Australian genus comprises four species of small, evergreen shrubs with attractive, heath-like, divided foliage. It is grown for its pretty, six-petalled flowers, similar to those of Boronia, which range from white to deep pink. Sometimes straggly in the wild, they can under cultivation become quite beautiful shrubs. B. rubioides is the one usually grown in the US.

Species

B. capitata is a small, roundish bush, which grows well in heath-like areas, generally to only 30 cm (12 in). It has distinctive three-lobed leaflets and terminal clusters of dark pink flowers.

B. rubioides, river rose of dog rose, from New South Wales, is commonly found growing on moist, shady creek banks. This pretty, spreading shrub bears delicate pink or white flowers, which look like small button-shaped roses, throughout most of the year. It grows to around 1 m (3 ft). Var. alba, the white form, is native to southern Australia and Tasmania.

B. sessiliflora, showy Bauera, is restricted to Victoria where it is found, in particular, along the rivers and creeks of the Grampians. It grows to around 1.2 m (4 ft). Clusters of rosy purple or magenta open-petalled flowers bloom freely in spring. This species needs a semi-shaded position and moist soil at all times. Too much sun causes yellowing of the dark green, stalkless foliage.

Cultivation

In very frosty climates, grow in pots of compost consisting of loam, leaf mould and sand, in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Ensure good light but shade from strong sun. Outdoors, they do best in open, sandy, peaty soil in a cool part of the garden, though they will grow in full sunlight. Provide a plentiful supply of moisture, particularly in summer, as they must not dry out. Prune after flowering and propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings in spring. Place under a clear cover in a light, sandy soil, with a supporting frame. Water regularly. They should take root within four to six weeks. They can also be raised from seed.

Climate

Zone 9 and above.