Family: Rutaceae

Not widely cultivated, these attractive, aromatic shrubs have starry, white, yellow or pink flowers, often in terminal clusters. All 40 species are Australian natives, except P. nudum, which is from New Zealand. All are woody shrubs of varying sizes. The flowers may be white, pink or yellow.

Species

P. ambiens grows to 2 m (6 ft) high, with light green, stem-clasping foliage and white flowers.

P. dentatum has narrow, silvery foliage and masses of cream, spring flowers.

P. nottii is a rounded shrub, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) high, with small, narrow, dark green leaves and terminal clusters of mauve-pink flowers.

P. nudum, New Zealand naked phebalium or maire hau, is beautiful and highly aromatic, with red bark and flat-topped clusters of white flowers.

P. squameum, satinwood, is a large shrub or even a small tree, with dark green leaves, scaly on the undersides, and white, starry flowers in spring and summer.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in pots of acid, soilless potting compost. Provide good light, but shade from direct strong sun. Pruning may needed after flowering to restrict size. Outdoors grow in a sunny spot with acid, humus rich, moist yet well-drained soil. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings during summer, in a heated propagating case.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 and above.