Long-leaved Westringia
westringia longifolia
Also known as: ["Long-leaved Westringia","Coastal Westringia"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen shrub native to Australia, known for its long, narrow leaves and small, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Westringia |
| Botanical Name: | Westringia longifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter. A mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning annually in late winter or early spring; more intensive shaping as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor placement, provide the brightest possible location with direct or filtered sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperate climates (50–85°F or 10–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer before watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost for slow-release nutrients; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Seeds can also be used but may take longer to germinate.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take 6–12 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above leaf nodes or lateral branches to promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Light pruning can be done annually to shape the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) can damage leaves and stems, potentially leading to dieback.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers in winter. Move potted plants to a sheltered location or greenhouse during hard freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat (above 90°F or 32°C) can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves, provide afternoon shade if possible, and increase humidity around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWestringia longifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicWestringia longifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicWestringia longifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Westringia longifolia suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly tolerant of coastal conditions and salt spray.
Q: How often should Westringia longifolia be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Westringia longifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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