In this post we will talk about a very compact new shrub of the Westringia genus, Westringia 'Grey Box'® that we have recently incorporated at Sala Graupera.
It is an evergreen shrub of the Lamiaceae family, from Australia.
It can reach 45 centimeters wide by 45 tall; as we can see it is a very compact plant without the need for any pruning.
Its leaves are silvery gray-green, whorled and lanceolate, with very short internodes, which give it a very compact and dense appearance, without the inner leaves of the plant drying out.
The flowering, white, occurs sporadically throughout the year, increasing from January to June. The flower, labiate, has the upper petal divided into two lobes, with small violet spots in its lower half.
Detail of the flower of Westringia 'Grey Box'; Source: © Guillem Morral
It is a species belonging to hardiness zone number 9, with an average annual minimum temperature range of -6.6 / -1.2°C, showing resistance to moderate frosts.
'Grey Box'® has proven to be a very drought tolerant species. It only requires support irrigation during the 8-10 weeks after planting, once well rooted it does not require any irrigation (except those planted in pots). It is interesting to cover the soil with some species of mulch to retain soil moisture and avoid the appearance of unwanted weeds that may compete with it.
Its location can be both in full sun and in moderate shade, suitable in sustainable gardens and/or in coastal gardens, as it also shows resistance to salinity and sea breeze. It also develops well both in sandy soils and in clayey and heavy soils, as long as they have good drainage. The use of any type of fertilizer is not necessary unless it grows in containers.
Image of Westringia 'Grey Box'; Source: © Guillem Morral
This plant constitutes an alternative to other Westringia when there are drought conditions and few labor resources for maintenance. We can consider it a very functional plant as it adapts to all types of gardens. It can be used as a low hedge, homogeneous border and for creating dense masses of low height development (maximum growth of 45 centimeters). Also recommended for planting in containers or planters. It allows creating dense and very homogeneous balls without the need for any pruning.
The recommended planting density is 3 to 5 plants per square meter, or 2 to 3 per linear meter if you want to achieve a border. In our nursery we have this species in 3L containers.
Image of Westringia 'Grey Box' 3L; Source: © Guillem Morral
It is a very recommendable and versatile plant, which we encourage you to try.