Kunzea parvifolia is a medium-sized shrub, an East Coast species that will reach around 1–1.5m in height. Very attractive violet-pink flowers give it the common name of ‘Violet Kunzea’. The flowers are rounded and appear from spring through summer, often extending into autumn, as terminal flowers on the ends of the stems. The flowers appear on long stems and can be used as cut flowers.
This is a species that will spread to form a rounded bush of about 2–3m in diameter over time, although plants are mostly smaller in cultivation. Its natural habitat is in sclerophyll forests and woodland, where it is often found in areas with access to some moisture.
How To Grow Kunzea parvifolia
A little more tolerant of moisture than some other species, Kunzea parvifolia, with its violet to mauve flowers and fragrant foliage, is a wonderful addition to the garden.
The flowers are small and ‘fuzzy button’ like, appearing in masses on terminal stems from spring to summer. When in full flower, the plant can be very attractive, with the violet-pink flowers standing out against the green foliage.
Reaching around 1–1.5m in height, although prostrate cultivars are offered as well, Kunzea parvifolia can be used in a range of garden situations. The more compact forms are useful where space is limited, while the larger forms can be allowed to develop naturally into a rounded shrub.
Position and Soil
Kunzea parvifolia prefers a well-drained soil and full sun to light shade. It is a hardy Australian native and is suited to a range of soils, provided drainage is reasonable.
In its natural habitat it grows in sclerophyll forest and woodland, so it does not require a particularly rich soil. A position with some moisture available during the growing season is beneficial, although constantly wet soils should be avoided.
Watering
New plants should receive a little extra water while establishing, particularly through the first summer. Kunzea parvifolia is drought tolerant once established, however it will generally perform better with occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.
It is more tolerant of moisture than some other Kunzea species, but good drainage is still important.
Pruning
Kunzea parvifolia is excellent in the native border where it can be tip pruned to maintain shape. Tip prune after flowering to promote a more bushy and compact habit and to prevent the plant from becoming too open.
Regular light pruning is generally all that is required. This also makes the plant useful in smaller gardens where its natural rounded form needs to be maintained.
Frost Tolerance
Kunzea parvifolia is frost tolerant once established and is a useful choice for gardens where a hardy Australian native shrub is required. As with most newly planted shrubs, young plants benefit from some protection from severe frost while they establish.
Growing Kunzea parvifolia in the Garden
With its fragrant foliage, attractive violet-pink flowers and ability to tolerate both dry conditions and some additional moisture, Kunzea parvifolia is a useful Australian native shrub.
It works well in the native border and can also be used in mixed plantings, informal garden beds and as a feature plant. The prostrate forms are useful for rock gardens and lower-growing areas.
The flowers are produced in masses and provide good seasonal interest, while the long flowering stems can also be useful for cutting.
Once established, Kunzea parvifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Give it a sunny, well-drained position, water while establishing and use light tip pruning to maintain a compact shape.
You may also be interested in
- Australian Native Plants
- Bird Attracting Plants
- Bush Tucker Plants
- Callistemon
- Drought Tolerant Plants
- Kunzea species
- Kunzea ericoides
- Kunzea ambigua
Kunzea parviolia and species are available for sale from the following nurseries
146 Dignams Crk Rd via Narooma NSW 2546
Tubestock - [50mm forestry tubes and 70mm supertubes] specializing in Bush Tucker Plants , Natives indigenous to the NSW South Coast , Permaculture Plants - Fruits, Nuts & Berries .
www.southcoastflora.com.au