Westringia fruticosa – Australian rosemary for Mediterranean gardens and terraces
Westringia (Westringia fruticosa), commonly known as Australian rosemary, is an evergreen shrub native to Australia that has won over Mediterranean gardens thanks to its exceptional resilience, understated beauty, and ease of care. Its small white or pale lilac flowers, which bloom almost continuously for much of the year, and its fine, aromatic gray-green foliage make it a versatile plant with a striking landscape effect.
Plant characteristics
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Pot diameter: 18 cm
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Plant height: approximately 35 cm
- White or pale lilac flowers, almost continuous flowering
- Evergreen gray-green, fine and aromatic foliage
- Bushy and compact growth habit, easily shaped
- Exceptional resistance to drought, wind, and salt spray
- Ideal for Mediterranean gardens, sunny terraces, and coastal areas
Care and maintenance
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Light: full sun or bright light – it thrives in direct sunlight, which promotes abundant flowering and compact growth
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Watering: very moderate – extremely drought-resistant once established; water only when the substrate is completely dry
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Temperature: hardy down to approximately -5°C; ideal for Mediterranean, coastal, and temperate climates; excellent resistance to wind and salt spray
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Substrate: well-draining, even poor and sandy; it does not tolerate waterlogging
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Fertilizing: once a month in spring and summer with a low-concentration balanced fertilizer
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Pruning: light pruning after flowering to maintain the desired shape and encourage new flowering shoots
Westringia fruticosa is the ideal plant for anyone looking for a beautiful, resilient, and practically self-sufficient evergreen shrub: perfect for borders, low hedges, terrace pots, and low-maintenance gardens in a Mediterranean or Australian style.
Frequently asked questions
Is Westringia fruticosa cold-hardy?
It is hardy down to approximately -5 °C and is suitable for Mediterranean, coastal, and temperate climates. In colder areas, it is best to protect it during winter.
Is Australian rosemary resistant to coastal conditions?
Yes: it tolerates wind and salt spray well, which is why it is widely used in coastal gardens and exposed terraces.
How much water does Westringia need?
Very little: once established, it tolerates drought extremely well. Water it only when the substrate is completely dry and avoid waterlogging.
Can it be used for a low hedge?
Yes: it has a bushy and compact growth habit that is easy to shape with light pruning after flowering. It is suitable for borders, low hedges, and terrace pots.
