Contents
Description
Boronia Crenulata, commonly known as the Alpine Boronia, is a flowering shrub native to Australia. It is part of the citrus family, Rutaceae, and is known for its fragrant flowers and foliage. The plant typically grows up to 1.5 metres tall and 1 metre wide, and can live for up to 20 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Boronia |
Appearance
The Alpine Boronia has small, oval leaves that are around 1-2cm long and 0.5-1.5cm wide. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with serrated edges. The plant produces clusters of pink, bell-shaped flowers that are around 1cm long and 1cm wide. The flowers are highly fragrant and bloom in late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Boronia Crenulata prefers a well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It requires consistent moisture and should not be allowed to dry out completely. The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boronia Crenulata is susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases, particularly in damp conditions. It may also be attacked by spider mites and aphids. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent pest infestations.
Habitat
Alpine Boronia is native to the southeastern regions of Australia, where it grows in alpine and subalpine habitats. It prefers cool, moist environments and is often found growing in rocky areas or near streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Boronia Crenulata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Boronia Crenulata can be grown in containers, but it requires consistent moisture and should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Q: Does Boronia Crenulata attract bees?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of Boronia Crenulata attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Boronia Crenulata?
A: Boronia Crenulata can be propagated from cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. The cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood and should be treated with rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Boronia Crenulata be fertilized?
A: Boronia Crenulata should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and again in early summer.
Related Plants
- Boronia heterophylla
- Boronia serrulata
- Boronia megastigma
References
- “Boronia crenulata.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 22 April 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp14/boronia-crenulata.html
- “Boronia crenulata.” PlantNet. Accessed 22 April 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Boronia~crenulata
- “Boronia crenulata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 April 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14890/Boronia-crenulata/Details
