Care of the shrub Thryptomene saxicola or Rock thryptomene |
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The genus Thryptomene, family Myrtaceae, includes 66 species of shrubs native to Australia. Some species are: Thryptomene saxicola, Thryptomene australis, Thryptomene calycina, Thryptomene denticulata. Common name: Rock thryptomene. This species is native to the south-west of Western Australia. They are evergreen shrubs with arching stems that reach 1 meter (3.28 feet) in height. The aromatic, small oval leaves are 1 cm (0.39") long and dark green in colour. They produce many small pinkish-white flowers up to 1 cm (0.39") in diameter. They bloom in spring but may bloom again in other seasons. They are used as isolated specimens, in bush groups, next to walls, in pots for patios and terraces and as cut flowers. They attract butterflies and bees. Thryptomene saxicola grows in full sun and light shade exposures. They resist light and occasional frosts. The soil can be normal, well-drained garden soil with coarse sand and some organic matter; they also grow in poor soils. Water moderately waiting for the substrate to dry completely. If they are grown in pots, water waiting for the surface of the substrate to dry. Fertilize once a month with mineral fertilizer in spring and autumn. Prune lightly in autumn to maintain a compact habit. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated by cuttings in spring or autumn and from seeds sown in spring but it is a slow process. |
Images of the shrub Thryptomene saxicola or Rock thryptomene |
 Thryptomene saxicola  Thryptomene saxicola  Thryptomene saxicola  Thryptomene saxicola  Thryptomene saxicola |