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Description
Eremophila Freelingii, also known as the emu bush, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. This evergreen shrub is native to Australia and is commonly found in arid regions of Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and drought tolerance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Eremophila |
Appearance
Eremophila Freelingii is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 4-8 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. The leaves are gray-green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces tubular flowers that are about 2-3 cm long and range in color from pink to purple. The flowers appear in clusters at the end of the branches from late winter to early summer. The fruit of the plant is a small, woody capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Eremophila Freelingii is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in hot and dry conditions. Here are some care tips to keep your emu bush healthy:Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Eremophila Freelingii does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. It can tolerate sandy or rocky soil.Sunlight: Eremophila Freelingii thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eremophila Freelingii is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Eremophila Freelingii is native to arid regions of Australia and is commonly found in sandy or rocky soils. It can tolerate drought, extreme heat, and cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eremophila Freelingii toxic to pets?
A: There are no reports of toxicity in Eremophila Freelingii. However, it is always best to keep pets away from any plant to prevent accidental ingestion.Q: Can Eremophila Freelingii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eremophila Freelingii can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in full sun.Q: Does Eremophila Freelingii require pruning?
A: Eremophila Freelingii does not require pruning but can be shaped in early spring if needed.Q: Can Eremophila Freelingii be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Eremophila Freelingii can be propagated from cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eremophila Freelingii:- Eremophila glabra- Eremophila maculata- Eremophila subteretifolia- Eremophila nivea
References
– “Eremophila Freelingii.” Australian Native Plants Society. https://anpsa.org.au/e-fre.html- “Eremophila Freelingii.” Gardening With Angus. https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/eremophila-freelingii/- “Eremophila Freelingii.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Eremophila~freelingii
