In this post we will talk about a very versatile shrub that is in the Sala Graupera catalog. It is a compact shrub of the Westringia genus, Westringia fruticosa. From this species come all the other Westringia varieties available today in the market.
It is an evergreen shrub of the Lamiaceae family from eastern Australia.
It can reach 120/150 centimeters wide by 100/120 tall. It is, without a doubt, a very suitable shrub for the formation of dense balls or compact borders thanks to pruning.
Its leaves are dark green on the upper surface and silvery green on the underside, whorled and lanceolate, with short internodes.
The flowering is typical of the Lamiaceae family. It occurs mainly between January and December, that is, we will have flowering throughout the year, although it is increased in late winter. The flower, white, labiate, has the upper petal divided into two lobes.
Image of Westringia fruticosa; Source: © Guillem Morral
It is a species belonging to hardiness zone number 8, with an average annual minimum temperature range of -12.2 / -6.7°C, showing resistance to strong frosts.
Westringia fruticosa 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. From Sala Graupera we recommend planting it in autumn, in this way we will arrive at the first summer with guarantees of being able to overcome it successfully, since during autumn, winter and spring, the plant will have developed a very important root system. If it is not possible to do the planting during autumn, you should always avoid planting it during the summer months, which is when plants have strong water stress.
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 develops well both in sandy soils and in clayey and heavy soils, as long as they have good drainage.
Image of Westringia fruticosa; Source: © Guillem Morral
We have the option of not pruning the shrub, but if we wish to give it shape, pruning can be performed one to three times a year, always after flowering.
It is ideal for difficult plantings on road margins, slope vegetation or mass plantings to cover the ground in large areas or recreation areas.
The recommended planting density is 2 to 3 plants per square meter, or 2 to 3 per linear meter if you want to achieve a border.
It is undoubtedly a plant that we recommend using in your sustainable gardens and terraces as we assure you optimal aesthetic results.