Family: Myrtaceae

Of this genus of 40 species of Australian ever-green shrubs, only a few are commonly culti­vated. They have long, graceful, arched branches which are clothed with tiny, aromatic leaves. They flower over a long period from winter through to summer, producing masses of small, white or pink, starry flowers. They are frost-tender shrubs, and in frost-prone climates are grown in a cool greenhouse or conservatory.

Species

Few of these are likely to be available outside their native Australia.

T. baeckeacea, from Western Australia, has tiny, aromatic leaves and produces small, deep pink flowers in spring and summer.

T. calycina, bushy heath myrtle or jam tart, from western Victoria, is a rounded or spreading shrub, growing to 1-2 m (3-6 in) high, with slightly pointed, dark green foliage and an abundance of red-centered, white flowers, borne in tapering sprays in spring or summer. This species is valued for its cut flowers.

T. ericaea is a small, stiff shrub from South Australia, with tiny, overlapping leaves and white flowers.

T. saxicola is the species which is most commonly grown. It is a compact plant, growing to 1 m (3 ft) high, with rounded leaves and pink or white flowers. Cultivar 'F.C. Payne' is recommended. It has tiny, green leaves and a profusion of light pink flowers, which appear in spring or summer, though it may also flower at other times of year. This form produces good cut flowers.

T. stenocalyx, coming from Western Australia, grows to 1.2 m (4 ft), with oval leaves. It is the only species which produces yellow flowers.

T. stenophylla is a low, spreading shrub which has very tiny, dense leaves and pink, summer flowers.

Cultivation

Thryptomenes need acid or lime-free soil, so when pot grown under glass, use an acid, soil-based or soilless potting compost. Ensure maximum light and airy conditions. Outdoors grow in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. After flowering, cut back old flow­ered stems, but not into the old wood. Propagate in spring from seed germinated at 16°C (61°F). Do not cover with compost. Otherwise, propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with basal warmth.

Climate

Zone 10.