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Description
Westringia eremicola, also known as the Sandpaper Westringia, is a flowering plant native to Australia. This evergreen shrub belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is characterized by its narrow, grey-green leaves and small, white or pale lilac flowers that bloom in clusters. It is a hardy plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 2 meters in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Westringia |
Appearance
The Sandpaper Westringia has narrow, grey-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a rough texture. The leaves are about 2-3 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. The flowers are small, white or pale lilac, and bloom in clusters at the ends of the branches. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 2 meters in width, making it a great choice for a low hedge or border plant.
Care Guide
Water: Westringia Eremicola is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil: Westringia Eremicola prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, but will not grow well in heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in poor growth and fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Westringia Eremicola is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but will not survive in areas with harsh winters.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sandpaper Westringia is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions. Overwatering can also lead to root rot. Common pests include spider mites and scale insects, which can be treated with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Westringia Eremicola is native to the coastal regions of Western Australia, where it grows in sandy or rocky soils in full sun or partial shade. It is well adapted to the dry, hot conditions of its native habitat and is commonly used in xeriscaping and low-water gardening.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Westringia Eremicola be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its growth.
Q: How often should I prune my Sandpaper Westringia?
A: Pruning is not required, but if you want to maintain a neat shape, you can prune lightly after flowering in the spring.
Q: Can Westringia Eremicola tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, this plant is salt-tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas with salt spray.
Q: Can Westringia Eremicola be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Westringia brevifolia
- Westringia fruticosa
- Westringia glabra
- Westringia longifolia
- Westringia ravenii
References
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. (2021). Westringia eremicola. Florabase. https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/23585
- Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. (n.d.). Westringia eremicola. https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/plants/plant-selector/plant-detail/westringia-eremicola
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Westringia eremicola. UC IPM. https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/files/298444.pdf
