Family: Rutaceae
Common Name: Waxflower

Apart from one species from New Caledonia, this genus of highly ornamental, evergreen, flowering shrubs is native to Australia. They are frost-tender, low-growing, bushy shrubs, with a spreading habit, and small, mostly aromatic leaves. The five-petalled, waxy, star-like flowers bloom profusely over a long period.

Species

E. australasius, pink waxflower, is an elegant, erect shrub, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) tall, and very striking when in flower. The large, pink flowers are borne on pendulous branches from spring to autumn and the foliage is a grayish green colour.

E. buxifolius is a rounded shrub, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) tall, with deep pink buds, changing to starry, white towers, crowded at the end of branches. The leaves are scaly.

E. myoporoides, long-leaf waxflower, is the species most often grown. It can grow to 2 m (6 ft) high and wide, but is often smaller. From autumn through to spring the deep pink buds open to white flowers. The cul­tivar 'Clearview Pink' has pink-flushed flowers from red buds.

E. verrucosus, fairy waxflower, has slender branches, with pink buds opening to white flowers in spring.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in pots of acid, soil-based potting compost in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Provide maximum light. Eriostemons like a loose, slightly acidic, well-drained soil and part shade. They respond to light pruning after flowering. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings, taken during late summer or autumn.

Climate

Zone 10.