Philotheca buxifolia (syn. Eriostemon buxifolius) is a small upright shrub, commonly called the Box-Leaf Waxflower.
Grown for the small star shaped flowers that appear in spring to summer, this is a low growing plant that can be used as a ground cover.
Foliage is aromatic when rubbed and the flowers attract Bees, Butterflies and Birds to the garden. The term ‘Buxifolia’ simply means Buxus like foliage, differing from species such as Philotheca myoporoides
Care
In a well drained humus rich soil and a sunny position this is a low care plant. A little mulch around the base of the plant will keep the root system cool as well as suppress weeds.
The root system itself does not like to be disturbed once established, so avoid transplanting and avoid digging around the base of the plant.
Pruning
Light tip pruning after flowering will give the plant a more bushy habit as well as promote more flowers.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Philotheca buxifolia (syn. Eriostemon buxifolius)
- Common Names – Box-leaf Waxflower.
- Position – Full Sun to a little shade
- Soil – Well drained, slightly acidic.
- Height – To around .3 to .5 metres
- Spread – Around .5 metres.
- Flowers – Waxy Pink.
- Flowering time – Spring to Summer.
- Foliage – Blue/green..
- Growth Rate – Medium to Fast.
- Frost tolerant – Yes
- Drought tolerant – Yes, once established