The Coastal Rosemary
Growing in full sun to part shade Westringia glabra may not be as commonly used as some of the related species, however it is an attractive and useful garden plant.
Reaching 1m + in height and with attractive deep green foliage the lilac flowers that appear in spring to summer contrast well.
A little more open growing than some, new growth of can be pinched back to help create a more bushy habit.
Landscaping Uses
As a small shrub in a native garden or border, or as a low growing easy care hedging plant.
As a hedge plant at around 80cm apart for a dense hedge. Westringia glabra grows well in part shade as well as protected coastal conditions.
Varieties
- W. glabra ‘Deep Purple’ – Darker purple flowers than others.
- W. glabra ‘Cababra’ – Lilac flowers. This plant has its origins as a hybrid between Westringia glabra and Westringia fruiticosa
Westringia glabra Care
Drought tolerant once established Westringia glabra could be used in the native garden, or as a low growing hedge. Excellent for coastal conditions.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a dense bushy habit.
- Use a low phosphate native plant fertilizer in spring.
- Mulch lightly around plants to maintain a cool root run.
- Water during long dry summer spells for best performance.
Could also be grown as a container plant, however may require more water in these conditions.
Pruning
Light regular pruning is best. The best time to prune is after flowering.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Westringia Glabra
- Common Names – Coastal Rosemary or Violet Westringia
- Country of Origin – Australia – NSW to Victoria in coastal areas.
- Climate Zones – Tropical to Warm Temperate, naturally growing in rainforest areas.
- Position – Full sun to light afternoon shade
- Soil – Tolerates a range of well drained soils, including poor coastal soils.
- Height – Generally around 1 metre up to 3 metres
- Spread – Rounded shrub to 1 metre plus.
- Growth Rate – Medium
- Foliage – Glossy deep.
- Flowers – Purple to Violet.
- Flowering Time – Almost year round.
- Frost tolerant – Will tolerate light frosts only.
- Drought tolerant – Yes.
- Root system – Regarded as non – invasive.