Westringia

Description

Westringia is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Australia, where it grows in a wide range of habitats, from coastal to inland regions. This plant is highly prized for its ornamental value, as it features beautiful foliage and flowers that can add a touch of elegance to any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Westringia features small, narrow leaves that are either green or gray-green in color. The leaves are highly aromatic, and can be used in cooking or for medicinal purposes. The plant produces small, delicate flowers that are typically white or light purple in color. The flowers bloom in spring and summer, and are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Care Guide

Westringia is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your Westringia:

• Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water your plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it.
• Fertilization: Westringia does not require a lot of fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year to help promote healthy growth.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may need to amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: Westringia prefers full sun to partial shade. Make sure your plant is getting at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Westringia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few issues you should be aware of. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect your Westringia:

• Spider Mites: These tiny insects can suck the sap from your plant, causing it to become weak and discolored. You can control spider mites by spraying your plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
• Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion and discoloration of your plant’s leaves. You can control aphids by spraying your plant with a mixture of water and neem oil.
• Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause your plant’s roots to rot, leading to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent root rot, make sure your plant is not sitting in water, and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Westringia is native to Australia, where it grows in a wide range of habitats, from coastal to inland regions. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged, and it requires full sun to partial shade. Westringia is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, and can be grown in a variety of settings, from gardens to containers.

Question and Answer

Q. Can Westringia tolerate drought?

A. Yes, Westringia is relatively drought-tolerant, but it still requires regular watering to thrive.

Q. How often should I fertilize my Westringia?

A. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year to your Westringia to help promote healthy growth.

Q. Can I grow Westringia in a container?

A. Yes, Westringia can be grown in a container, as long as the container has adequate drainage and the plant is provided with regular water and fertilizer.

Q. Is Westringia poisonous to pets?

A. There is no evidence that Westringia is poisonous to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from plants that you are unsure about.

Related Plants

• Salvia
• Rosmarinus
• Thymus
• Melaleuca

References

• The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Westringia fruticosa. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15085/westringia-fruticosa/details
• Australian National Botanic Gardens. (n.d.). Westringia. Retrieved from https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2002/westringia.html
• Gardening Know How. (2021). Westringia plant care – how to grow Australian rosemary. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/westringia/westringia-plant-care.htm