With flowers from winter through to spring, Micromyrtus ciliata is available in two forms, one a low growing or prostrate variety the other a small shrub.
Very small leaves and a natural arching habit make this a most attractive plant for general garden use or the rock garden.
Commonly called the Fringed Myrtle, over time it can form a large spreading shrub and when in full flower is a feel feature in the garden.
The plant can be pruned by removing a whole spray that can be used for backing in a flower arrangement.
Another attractive species with good foliage this is a plant that is not widely offered for sale.
Growing well in poor and even rocky soils in open woodland areas, this is plant that requires good drainage and will benefit from a little afternoon shade.
How to Grow Micromyrtus ciliata – Basic Care
Micromyrtus ciliata is a hardy and adaptable native shrub that rewards the right conditions with a long season of delicate flowers and fine-textured foliage.
Soil & Position
- Prefers well-drained soil — excellent for sandy, loamy, or gravelly conditions.
- Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils unless they are significantly improved with drainage.
- Best in full sun to a little afternoon shade, especially in hotter regions.
Watering
- Moderate water through the first few summers helps establishment.
- Once established, drought tolerance increases, though occasional watering keeps foliage fresh.
Mulch
- Apply mulch out to the drip line to:
– cool roots
– conserve moisture
– suppress weeds - Keep mulch clear of the crown to reduce risk of rot.
Feeding
- Generally low feeding needs — avoid heavy fertiliser loads.
- If needed, use a low-phosphorus native fertiliser lightly in spring.
Pruning
- Responds well to light pruning after flowering — helps maintain shape and encourages new growth.
- Entire sprays can be cut for use in fresh or dried floral arrangements.
Additional water through the first summers will assist with establishment.
It will benefit from some mulch around the base to the drip line as this will provide a cool root run.
Plant Overview
- Botanical Name: Micromyrtus ciliata
- Common Name: Fringed Myrtle
- Family: Myrtaceae
- Habit: Small to medium spreading shrub with fine foliage and an arching growth form; available in both prostrate and upright forms.
- Foliage: Tiny aromatic green leaves that add fine texture to the garden.
- Flowers: White flowers that age to deep pink; abundant and showy from winter through spring.
- Height: Generally up to around 1 m or slightly taller, depending on form and growing conditions.
- Spread: Often 2–3 m over time for spreading plants, or more compact in prostrate forms.
- Position: Full sun to light shade.
- Soil: Well-drained and lime-free.
- Tolerances:
– Frost tolerant — can handle colder conditions once established.
– Moderate drought tolerant — prefers moisture initially but once established is resilient.