Victorian Christmas Bush
A large shrub to small tree, with its fragrant flowers is commonly called the Victorian Christmas Bush.
An interesting species in that is one of the mint bush or Lamiaceae family, in fact the largest growing of this group.
It is found growing as an understory shrub in forests from Tasmania, through Victoria and New South Wales to parts of southern Queensland.
The foliage has the characteristic minty menthol fragrance when rubbed, the flowers a sweeter minty perfume.
In its natural habitat this is a tree that can reach over 4 metres in height, however usually less.
Although it is a plant that will grow in full sun, it is at its best in dappled shade. This is mostly a white flowering species that flowers much later than the other mint bushes. It will withstand frosts, however is best in a position protected from strong winds.
Pink flowering varieties can be found however are rare in cultivation. All flowers tend to have pink markings in the throat.
Landscaping and Garden Uses
Can be used as an ornamental flowering plant or planted as an informal hedge or screen in a protected position. Flowers are attractive however do not make good cut flowers.
The common name of Victorian Christmas Bush comes from the fact that this is when it flowers around Melbourne, especially in the Dandenong Ranges.
Propagation
Propagation is from cuttings or from seed, or from heeled cuttings.
Summary Description For Prostanthera lasianthos
- Botanical name : Prostanthera lasianthos
- Family : Lamiaceae
- Common Name : Victorian Christmas Bush, Mountain Lilac, Mint Bush
- Position : Light Shade. This is an understory plant from sclerophyll forests.
- Soil : Moist and well drained
- Height : 2 – 6m depending on conditions
- Spread ; To 2m
- Growth Rate : Fast under good conditions
- Foliage : Deep green leaves, aromatic when brushed or crushed.
- Flowers : white to mauve
- Flowering Time : Early summer to late summer
- Frost Tolerance : Medium to Good frost tolerance.
- Drought tolerant : No
Related Species
- Prostanthera magnifica
- Prostanthera aspalathiodea
- Prostanthera incisa