Dampiera plants are attractive Australian natives known for their long-lasting blue to purple flowers and versatility in gardens. Spanning over 50 species across Australia—from Western Australia’s Dampiera diversifolia to Queensland’s cooler varieties—these perennials thrive in sunny, well-drained spots and form suckering clumps over time.
Ideal for many Australian gardens, they add vibrant color without high maintenance, performing well at sites like Karawara Gardens in the Dandenong Ranges.
Most species will grow in light shade, however they do tend to get ‘leggy’ and do not flower as well as they do when grown in full sun. They also do not like humidity, so tropical climates do not suit.
They are a wide spread genus. Dampiera are found across Australia, from Western Australia (Dampiera diversifolia and others) to Queensland, so with that sort of spread they are a diverse lot.
With over 50 species in the genus, variety occurs in foliage form, size and flower colour. The flower colour will vary form blue to purple and pale mauve.
How to grow Dampiera – Basic Care
Grow Dampiera in humus-rich, well-drained soil with at least 6 hours of morning sun; light afternoon shade prevents legginess in hotter areas.
- Soil: Amend with grit or scoria for drainage; raise beds if needed. Avoid heavy clay or humid tropics.
- Watering: Deep water every 2-3 weeks in the first summer; mature plants tolerate dry spells.
- Fertiliser: Use low-phosphate native formulas like Troforte M in spring for poor soils only.
- Mulch: Apply organic mulch for cool roots and soil microbes.
Pro tip for Victoria: Plant in autumn for root establishment before summer heat.
Dampiera Varieties
| D. linearis ‘Blue Moon’ | Compact, deep blue flowers, long bloom Suits Rockeries, containers, coastal. – 0.5m H / 0.6m W |
| D. purpurea (Purple Dampiera) | Suckering, purple-blue flowers, frost-tolerant Suits Open woodland, mass planting – 0.3-0.6m H / spreading |
| D. rosmarinifolia | Will reach around 70 cm in height |
| D. diversifolia | Prostrate, bright blue-purple, drought-hardy, Suits Groundcover, low borders – 0.25m H / 1m W |
| D. alata (Winged Dampiera) | Vigorous groundcover, blue flowers suits Meadows, early succession planting, Low-spreading |
| D. stricta | Compact, blue flowers post-fire suits Edges, well-drained beds. 0.1-0.3m H. Dampiera stricta ‘Glasshouse Glory‘ is from the cooler areas of Queensland and is very popular. |
Propagation and Maintenance
Propagate via cuttings or suckers in spring; D. linearis roots easily in water or sand. Tip prune twice yearly for bushiness, and avoid wet winters to prevent rot. Containers work well—ensure pots have drainage holes.
We are Asked
How to Keep Damiera from getting Leggy
Increase sun exposure
Why is my Dapiera not flowering well
Check proper drainage and fertiliser use.
Can Dampiera handle frost?
Yes, most tolerate light frosts to -3°C. Check with your local nursery for species specific tolerance.
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