Waxflower
eriostemon myoporoides
Also known as: ["Wax Myrtle","Myrtle Waxflower"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its fragrant, waxy white flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Eriostemon |
| Botanical Name: | Eriostemon myoporoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, every 2 months in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to encourage branching, clean cuts just above leaf nodes.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, improve air circulation.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape evenly, clean up debris, disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh well-draining soil, ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if crowded, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach roots, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility, use pine bark fines for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or browning; vulnerable to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location, use frost cloth in winter, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering; heat stress can weaken the plant.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriostemon myoporoides is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not produce known toxins that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEriostemon myoporoides is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEriostemon myoporoides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Eriostemon myoporoides?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: Is Eriostemon myoporoides suitable for indoor growing?
A: It can be grown indoors, but it requires bright light and good air circulation to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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