In this post we will talk about a new shrub recently incorporated at Sala Graupera. It is a compact shrub of the Westringia genus, Westringia 'Mundi'®.
It is an evergreen shrub of the Lamiaceae family from Australia.
It can reach 150/160 centimeters wide by 40/50 tall. It is, without a doubt, a very low habit Westringia, considered as creeping.
Its leaves are dark green on the upper surface and silvery green on the underside, whorled and lanceolate, with very short internodes.
The flowering, white and large, occurs sporadically throughout the year, increasing from January to June. The flower, labiate, has the upper petal divided into two lobes.
Image of Westringia 'Mundi'; 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.
'Mundi'® 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. It has also proven to be a plant tolerant to autumn rains.
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. The use of any type of fertilizer is not necessary.
Image of Westringia 'Mundi'; 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. It is, without a doubt, a good option in areas where limited plant growth and little care are required.
The recommended planting density is 2 to 3 plants per m2, or 2 to 3 per linear meter if you want to achieve a border. And we recommend planting it between the months of September and June. Always avoiding plantings during the summer months, which is when plants have strong water stress. In our nursery we have this species in 3L containers.
It is a very recommendable and versatile plant, which will give you good results.