Christmas bush (Prostanthera lasianthos)

Christmas bush

Arranged oppositely (arising in pairs) along the stems on 6 to 10 mm long petioles, the dark green lanceolate to ovate leaves are 4 to 12 cm (sometimes 15 cm ) long and about 1 to 3 cm wide and taper to an acute apex. The leaf undersurface is paler. Its flowers, which appear in profuse sprays, are about 2 cm long and white or pale lilac, with purple and orange blotches in the throat.

Scientific classification

Species

Christmas bush (Prostanthera lasianthos)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Green

Leaf Color

White, Purple

Flower Color

Green, White, Purple

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Christmas bush

Care Guide for Christmas bush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Christmas bush, native to Australia's arid regions, exhibits strong drought tolerance. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry. As an evergreen, christmas bush retains moisture in its leaves year-round and is ideally cultivated outdoors to benefit from natural rainfall.

Fertilize: For christmas bush, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote growth, adjusting for seasonal changes. Apply monthly during the growing season, decreasing in winter. A phosphorus-rich mix is ideal pre-flowering. Ensure even distribution around the root zone and avoid contact with stems to prevent burn.

Pruning: Christmas bush showcases fragrant leaves and abundant flowers, benefiting from annual pruning in early to late winter, after flowering. Trim dead wood and excessive branches to boost growth and health, enhance air circulation, and ensure a vibrant display in the following season.

Propagation: Christmas bush is propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy parent plants. Dipping in rooting hormone and using a well-draining mix fosters root growth. Maintain high humidity and stable temperature, with regular misting, avoiding waterlogging. Acclimatize rooted plants gradually before transplanting.

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