{"title":"Kunzea","description":"\u003cp\u003eKunzeas are Australian native shrubs in the myrtle family, close relatives of tea trees and bottlebrushes, with small aromatic leaves and fluffy flowers made up of long stamens. The range splits in two. The Western Australian species carry red bottlebrush style flowers and want sun and sharp drainage. The east coast Tick Bush is a tougher plant with masses of white, honey scented flowers. Choose by your climate first, then by the size and colour you need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to choose a kunzea\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri\"\u003eScarlet Kunzea\u003c\/a\u003e, Kunzea baxteri, comes from the south coast of Western Australia. It is a spreading shrub of 2 to 3 metres with grey green leaves and crimson brushes tipped with gold, mainly from late winter to spring. Plants raised from seed can take several years to begin flowering, so be patient with a young one. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/pink-scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri-pink\"\u003ePink Scarlet Kunzea\u003c\/a\u003e is a pink flowered form, and Mandy's Surprise is a dwarf selection for smaller gardens. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/granite-kunzea-kunzea-pulchella\"\u003eGranite Kunzea\u003c\/a\u003e, Kunzea pulchella, grows on granite outcrops in the Western Australian wheatbelt and suits dry, open, rocky sites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/products\/tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua\"\u003eTick Bush\u003c\/a\u003e, Kunzea ambigua, is native to the east coast from northern New South Wales to Tasmania. It grows 2 to 3 metres high with arching branches and is smothered in small white flowers in late spring and summer. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/prostrate-tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua\"\u003eProstrate Tick Bush\u003c\/a\u003e is a low, spreading form of the same species for groundcover and banks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere kunzea grows\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Western Australian species suit Mediterranean and temperate climates with dry summers, such as Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne and inland districts. They need full sun and free draining sandy or gravelly soil, tolerate coastal wind and light to moderate frost, and dislike humid summers. In Sydney and further north they are often short lived unless drainage and air movement are excellent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTick Bush is far more adaptable. It grows in sun or light shade, in sand or clay, on the coast and inland, through cool and warm temperate regions, and it handles frost. Its honey scented flowers are rich in nectar. One note of care: tick bush seeds readily into disturbed ground, so near bushland plant it only where it is local to your area.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eKunzeas fit naturally into a planting of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e, and tick bush earns a place among \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-bee-plants\"\u003enative bee plants\u003c\/a\u003e. For close relatives see our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tea-trees\"\u003etea trees\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting and spacing\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant in autumn where summers are dry, or in spring in cold districts. Do not enrich the soil heavily. On clay, plant the Western Australian species on a mound or slope. For an informal screen, space the taller kunzeas 1.5 to 2 metres apart. Set the prostrate tick bush about a metre apart for a continuous cover. Mulch with a coarse, open mulch and keep it away from the stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCare basics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWater through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. Use a low phosphorus native fertiliser in spring if growth is pale, and otherwise leave them unfed. Prune lightly straight after flowering, tip pruning from a young age to keep the shrub dense. Avoid cutting back into thick, leafless wood on the Western Australian species, which may not reshoot. Tick bush is more forgiving and can be cut harder to renew it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes tick bush attract bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. In flower it is one of the busiest shrubs in a native garden, visited by native bees, beetles and butterflies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow long does Scarlet Kunzea take to flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeed raised plants may take five years or more. Cutting grown plants usually flower sooner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs kunzea frost hardy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTick bush handles frost well. Scarlet Kunzea and Granite Kunzea take light to moderate frost once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill kunzea grow near the coast?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Both Scarlet Kunzea and Tick Bush tolerate coastal wind, given some shelter from the first line of salt spray.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri","title":"Scarlet Kunzea - Kunzea baxteri","description":"\u003cp\u003eScarlet kunzea (\u003cem\u003eKunzea baxteri\u003c\/em\u003e) is a Western Australian shrub that flowers like a bottlebrush but keeps a far better shape. It grows to about 3m tall and 2.5m wide, with fine grey-green foliage and bright red brush flowers tipped in gold through winter and spring. Honeyeaters and native bees work it constantly, and it takes salt, drought, heat and poor soil without complaint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed flowers when little else is out.\u003c\/strong\u003e The main flush runs through winter and into spring, filling the gap most gardens have at that time of year.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIt brings in birds and bees.\u003c\/strong\u003e Nectar rich brushes attract honeyeaters, native bees and butterflies, which makes it a genuine habitat plant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUseful screening size.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 3m by 2.5m it screens a fence line or a shed without becoming a tree you have to manage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt for hard sites.\u003c\/strong\u003e Coastal salt, drought, reflected heat and thin poor soil are all within its normal range.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screening.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.5m apart for a screen that closes over without being clipped. It is not a formal hedge plant, and trying to shear it flat costs you most of the flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWindbreaks and coastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Salt tolerance and fine, flexible foliage suit it to exposed coastal blocks and windy rural boundaries. A staggered double row at 1.5m spacing filters wind rather than trying to stop it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing scarlet kunzea in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, and plenty of it. It suits subtropical, warm temperate, Mediterranean and arid gardens, and thrives in Perth, Adelaide and inland districts where watering is restricted. It takes light frost only, so hard frosting tablelands are marginal, and it resents humid summer wet, which rules out the wet tropics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp drainage is the single most important factor, more than sun or feeding. Sandy and gravelly soils are ideal. On clay, plant on a mound 300mm above grade and mulch with gravel rather than heavy compost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water weekly through the first summer to establish, then it should need almost nothing outside extended drought. Feed once in early spring with a low phosphorus native fertiliser, or skip it entirely on poor soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune immediately after flowering, taking the spent brushes and about a third of the new growth. That single annual trim keeps it dense rather than woody. Like most of the myrtle family it is reluctant to reshoot from bare wood, so never cut into leafless stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScarlet kunzea is grown in two sizes: single tubes, and 140mm plants in packs of ten. Tube stock is a young single stem around 15 to 20cm high, and the practical choice for a long boundary run. The 140mm packs give you ten branching plants, enough for a 15m informal screen at 1.5m spacing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFine foliage travels well, so plants arrive in good condition. Plant into free draining ground and mulch with gravel kept clear of the stem. Expect the first proper flowering flush in the second year. Delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/discover-native-plants-with-red-flowers-for-your-garden\"\u003eNative plants with red flowers\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eBrowse Australian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-windbreaks\"\u003eCompare plants used for windbreaks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bee-and-butterfly-plants\"\u003ePlants that support bees and butterflies\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it for a screen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne and a half metres apart in a single row for an informal screen. For a windbreak, use two staggered rows at the same spacing so the planting filters wind instead of blocking it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow on the wet subtropical coast?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is marginal there. This species comes from a dry Mediterranean climate and dislikes humid, wet summers, which encourage root rot. In a humid area, plant on a high mound in the sunniest, best drained position you have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow is it different from a bottlebrush?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers look similar, but kunzea holds a denser, arching shape with finer foliage and wants sharper drainage. Bottlebrush is the better choice for wet or heavy soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":51643479982399,"sku":"KUN-BAX-tube","price":10.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":54140073935167,"sku":"KUN-BAX-140MM-P10","price":206.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6)","offer_id":55100477604159,"sku":"KUN-BAX-200MM-P6","price":217.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Scarlet-Kunzea-Kunzea-baxteri.png?v=1794662718"},{"product_id":"pink-scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri-pink","title":"Pink Scarlet Kunzea - Kunzea baxteri ‘Pink’","description":"\u003cp\u003ePink Scarlet Kunzea (\u003cem\u003eKunzea baxteri\u003c\/em\u003e 'Pink') is a Western Australian shrub grown for large bottlebrush flowers, here in soft pink rather than the usual fiery red. It makes a rounded bush around 2.5m tall and wide, and the flowers hold enough nectar to bring honeyeaters in from several gardens away. Given full sun and sharp drainage it is one of the toughest flowering natives you can plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge flowers in an uncommon colour.\u003c\/strong\u003e The brushes are substantial, and pink is rare in this genus, so you get the bottlebrush look without the usual red.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA honeyeater magnet.\u003c\/strong\u003e Nectar rich flowers pull in wattlebirds and honeyeaters, along with native bees and butterflies.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReal drought tolerance.\u003c\/strong\u003e Once the roots are down it lives on rain in most temperate and Mediterranean gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePoor soil suits it.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sand, gravel and thin infertile ground are what it evolved on. Rich soil and heavy feeding do more harm than good.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal and salt tolerant.\u003c\/strong\u003e It stands up to salt laden wind, so it works on exposed blocks where many flowering shrubs burn.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e A single plant in a dry sunny bed reads as a specimen when it flowers, and the rounded form holds up without clipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screening.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.5m apart for an informal screen. It will not clip into a formal hedge, but you get a soft, bird filled barrier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMass planting and coastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e On a dry bank or a wide verge, set plants 1.5m to 2m apart. On a coastal block, use it a line back from the front fence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Pink Scarlet Kunzea in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun all day with open air around it. This is a warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and arid to semi-arid plant, and it takes light frost only. Its weakness is not cold but humidity, so humid subtropical and tropical gardens do not suit it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Sharp drainage is not negotiable. Sandy or gravelly ground is ideal. On clay, plant on a mound 300mm high and mulch with gravel rather than heavy bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep water weekly through the first summer, then only in extended dry spells. Feed lightly in early spring with a low phosphorus native fertiliser, since standard products carry too much phosphorus for this family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Trim lightly straight after flowering, removing spent brushes and about a third of the new growth. Never cut into bare old wood, because it does not reshoot from it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe grow it in two sizes. Tube stock is a young single stemmed plant and the most affordable way to plant a group, and tubes establish quickly because the root system is fine and fibrous. The 140mm pack of 10 gives a larger plant on arrival and covers a screen run at 1.5m spacing in one order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpect a plant that looks unremarkable through its first year while the roots go down, then a jump in growth and first flowers in the second or third season. Delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/leptospermum-care-guide\"\u003eLeptospermum care guide, a close relative\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eMore Australian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bird-attracting\"\u003eBird attracting plants for the garden\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-arid-climates\"\u003ePlants for arid and dry climates\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart should I plant it for a screen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne and a half metres apart in a single row. Each plant reaches about 2.5m across, so that spacing lets the canopies overlap into a continuous barrier without crowding the bases.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in a humid climate?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt struggles. Prolonged humidity is the main thing that kills this species, so in humid subtropical and tropical gardens expect a short lived plant even with good drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I prune it hard to reduce its size?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo. It will not reshoot from bare wood, so a hard cut back usually kills the branch. Manage size with a light trim after every flowering, starting the year you plant it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":51643480473919,"sku":"KUN-BAX-PIN-tube","price":10.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":54140073967935,"sku":"KUN-BAX-PIN-140MM-P10","price":261.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Pink-Scarlet-Kunzea-Kunzea-baxteri-Pink.png?v=1794662720"},{"product_id":"granite-kunzea-kunzea-pulchella","title":"Granite Kunzea - Kunzea pulchella","description":"\u003cp\u003eGranite Kunzea (\u003cem\u003eKunzea pulchella\u003c\/em\u003e) is a Western Australian shrub that pairs soft silver grey foliage with scarlet bottlebrush flowers, a combination almost nothing else in the native palette offers. It grows to about 2.5m tall and 2m wide, open and slightly arching rather than a dense ball. On sand, gravel or a dry rocky slope it is a feature plant that honeyeaters work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSilver foliage, scarlet flowers.\u003c\/strong\u003e The felted grey leaves make the red brushes read twice as bright, and the contrast holds out of bloom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBirds work it hard.\u003c\/strong\u003e Honeyeaters and wattlebirds come for the nectar, so it earns its place in a wildlife garden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBuilt for dry, poor ground.\u003c\/strong\u003e Drought tolerant, heat tolerant and content in low fertility soil once established.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUseful size.\u003c\/strong\u003e At 2.5m by 2m it screens a fence line or anchors a rockery without becoming a job.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e One plant against a pale wall or gravel bed carries a corner. The arching habit suits an informal design, not a clipped one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screening.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.5m apart for a loose, breathable screen. It will not knit into a solid hedge and should not be sheared like one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRockeries, coastal and mass planting.\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent on slopes and raised gravel beds where drainage is sharp. In coastal gardens keep it back from direct salt spray, but use it freely a row in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Granite Kunzea in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun, always. This is a warm temperate, Mediterranean and arid to semi arid plant, at home in Perth, Adelaide, inland South Australia and the drier parts of Victoria and New South Wales. It dislikes humidity and tends to be short lived in the humid east. It handles light frost only.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Drainage is the whole game. Sand, gravel and decomposed granite are ideal. On clay it will not survive without a raised mound of coarse gritty mix at least 300mm high. Avoid rich compost and heavy mulch against the stem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water weekly through the first summer to get roots down, then only in extended dry spells. Use a low phosphorus native fertiliser once in early spring, or nothing. Standard fertilisers can damage it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Tip prune lightly straight after flowering to keep it furnished. Never cut into bare old wood; like most kunzeas it reshoots poorly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGranite Kunzea is supplied as tube stock, usually 15cm to 25cm tall. Kunzeas resent root disturbance, so a small plant put straight into well drained ground establishes faster than a larger one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTubes travel upright in trays and arrive in good order. Plant within a week, water in well, and expect little visible growth for the first month while roots move out. Allow two to three seasons to reach flowering size. Delivered Australia wide, delivery from $29.95. Every plant carries our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBrowse other tough options in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eAustralian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/discover-native-plants-with-red-flowers-for-your-garden\"\u003eNative plants with red flowers\u003c\/a\u003e for companions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompare choices for sharp drainage in \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/rockery-plants\"\u003erockery plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSee the wider \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/drought-tolerant-plants\"\u003edrought tolerant range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in Brisbane or Sydney?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt can, but honestly it is a gamble. Summer humidity causes sudden collapse in eastern gardens. Give it the sharpest drainage and most open position you have, or choose a native suited to humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow far apart for a screen?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.5m apart in a single row. Expect a light, informal screen rather than a solid wall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen does it flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMainly through spring, with scattered flowers either side in a mild season. Light tip pruning after the main flush encourages a heavier display the following year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":51643481096511,"sku":"KUN-PUL-tube","price":10.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/Granite-Kunzea-Kunzea-pulchella.jpg?v=1766223744"},{"product_id":"mandy-s-surprise-dwarf-scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri-mandy-s-surprise","title":"Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea - Kunzea baxteri 'Mandy's Surprise'","description":"\u003cp\u003eMandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea (\u003cem\u003eKunzea baxteri\u003c\/em\u003e 'Mandy's Surprise') is a compact Australian native shrub, about 1m high and 1m wide, that covers itself in fluffy red pompom flowers from early winter into spring. It began as a chance dwarf among normal sized plants of the species, and native gardeners noticed it at once. It can be slow to settle in, then flowers in a rush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWinter colour.\u003c\/strong\u003e The red flowers arrive earlier than on the full sized species, from the start of winter in some districts, when little else is in bloom.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact and neat.\u003c\/strong\u003e A rounded 1m shrub with tiny, neat leaves suits front gardens and borders where the full sized species would sprawl.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFood for wildlife.\u003c\/strong\u003e Birds, bees and butterflies visit the flowers, so it is a good pick for native and wildlife gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDrought hardy.\u003c\/strong\u003e Once established it copes with dry weather, which makes it a good choice for low water gardens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eInformal low hedging.\u003c\/strong\u003e The dense, cushiony form clips lightly into a soft low hedge or border edge.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow hedges and borders.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 80cm apart in a single row for an informal hedge about 1m high. A light trim after flowering keeps it tight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow water gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Pair it with other drought hardy natives in a bed that gets only occasional watering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNative and wildlife gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant it in a group of three where birds and insects will find the winter flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It prefers dry sandy soil and a dry coastal climate, so it suits seaside gardens with good drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun to part shade. It prefers a dry coastal climate, so it does best in Mediterranean and warm temperate gardens. It may grow in subtropical gardens, or in richer soils, if drainage is very free. It should come through a light frost once it is established and mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e Very free draining soil is the key, and it prefers dry sandy ground. On heavy soil, raise the bed with sand and grit or plant on a mound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mulch and water regularly until it establishes, which usually takes around 12 weeks. It is drought hardy, but water through prolonged dry spells to keep it healthy. Apply a slow release fertiliser made for natives in spring, and a seaweed solution each season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Tip prune lightly after flowering to keep it dense and rounded. Avoid cutting into old, leafless wood, which rarely reshoots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a small green plant with tiny leaves that may sit quietly for a season while its roots settle, so be patient. Small plants are light and travel securely, so unpack them as soon as they arrive and give them a good drink.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-natives\"\u003eMore Australian native plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/bird-attracting\"\u003ePlants that attract birds\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/designing-a-native-australian-garden-to-attract-wildlife\"\u003eDesigning a native garden for wildlife\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/drought-tolerant-plants\"\u003eDrought tolerant plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhy is it slow to flower?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMandy's Surprise can take a little while to establish. It forms a green cushion first, then flowers heavily once it has settled, often in winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow in the subtropics?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt prefers a dry coastal climate, but it may grow in subtropical gardens if the soil drains very freely. Raise the bed and avoid heavy clay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it a good hedging plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt suits informal low hedging at about 1m. Space plants 80cm apart and trim lightly after flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube","offer_id":67787260363071,"sku":"KUN-BAX-MANDYS-tube","price":18.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/mandy-s-surprise-dwarf-scarlet-kunzea-kunzea-baxteri-mandy-s-surprise.jpg?v=1792154676"},{"product_id":"prostrate-tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua","title":"Prostrate Tick Bush - Kunzea ambigua","description":"\u003cp\u003eProstrate Tick Bush (\u003cem\u003eKunzea ambigua\u003c\/em\u003e) is the low, spreading form of a tough Australian coastal native, growing 0.6 to 1m tall and 1 to 2m wide. In spring it is covered in clusters of fringed white, honey-scented flowers that pollinators love, over small, slender, aromatic leaves. It binds banks, copes with wind and asks for very little.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVery tough.\u003c\/strong\u003e It handles wind, heavy rain and frost, and stands up to humidity as far north as south east Queensland.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBinds banks and sand.\u003c\/strong\u003e A spreading plant that holds loose ground, so it suits erosion control and sand-based coastal sites.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpring blossom.\u003c\/strong\u003e Fringed white flowers smother the plant in spring and carry a honey scent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGreat for wildlife.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is an excellent pollinator plant, and the dense growth gives small mammals shelter.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA garden-sized tick bush.\u003c\/strong\u003e The upright species can reach 3m, but this form stays under a metre high.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanks and slopes.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 1.5m apart for bank binding and erosion control. The spreading stems knit together and hold loose soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal and exposed gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It grows on sandy soils near the coast in the wild, so it is a natural choice for windy seaside beds and dune edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCottage and wildlife gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it at the front of a native or cottage planting, where its spring flowers feed bees and butterflies and its stems shelter small creatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Prostrate Tick Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Bright or full sun suits it best. The parent species grows across Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales up to south east Queensland, so cool temperate, warm temperate and subtropical gardens all suit it. It tolerates frost and copes with wind and rain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e In the wild it grows in sandy soil, and it is happy in most free draining soils. Avoid permanently wet, boggy spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water regularly while the roots establish, then leave it largely to the weather. It needs little feeding on sandy soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and encourage flowers again next spring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Prostrate Tick Bush as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once planted, in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tubes suit large banks and mass plantings, and the bigger pots give faster cover. Tubes are supplied by our grower, so availability comes and goes. When the tube shows as on backorder the grower has none, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-native-shrubs\"\u003eBrowse Australian native shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/coastal-salt-tolerant-plants\"\u003eCoastal and salt tolerant plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-retaining-walls\"\u003ePlants for retaining walls and banks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/designing-a-native-australian-garden-to-attract-wildlife\"\u003eDesigning a native garden to attract wildlife\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow is this different from the standard tick bush?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize. The standard tick bush grows 1.5 to 3m tall. This prostrate form stays under 1m high and spreads 1 to 2m wide, so it suits small gardens and banks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill it grow at the beach?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It copes with coastal and exposed locations and stabilises sandy ground, so it is a sound choice for seaside gardens and dune edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I prune it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStraight after the spring flowers finish. A light trim shapes the plant and encourages good flowering the following year.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790408024383,"sku":"KUN-AMB-tube","price":12.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":67790411596095,"sku":"KUN-AMB-140MM-P10","price":217.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6)","offer_id":67790411628863,"sku":"KUN-AMB-200MM-P6","price":161.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/prostrate-tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua.jpg?v=1792208784"},{"product_id":"tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua","title":"Tick Bush - Kunzea ambigua","description":"\u003cp\u003eTick Bush (\u003cem\u003eKunzea ambigua\u003c\/em\u003e) is a hardy Australian native shrub for coastal and exposed gardens, growing 1.5 to 3m tall and 2 to 4m wide. In spring it carries clusters of fringed white, honey-scented flowers over small, slender, aromatic leaves. Size varies from plant to plant, so allow generous room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy you'll love it\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTough and weatherproof.\u003c\/strong\u003e It stands up to harsh winds and heavy rain, tolerates frost and copes with humidity as far north as south east Queensland.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpring blossom with a scent.\u003c\/strong\u003e The white, fringed flowers cover the shrub in spring and smell of honey.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA pollinator magnet.\u003c\/strong\u003e Bees, butterflies and other pollinators visit the flowers in numbers, which makes it a strong wildlife plant.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShelter for small mammals.\u003c\/strong\u003e The dense foliage gives cover for small creatures, and the plant can regenerate from seed after a fire.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHolds sand and soil.\u003c\/strong\u003e It binds banks and stabilises dunes, so it earns its keep on difficult sites.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere it works best\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformal screens and windbreaks.\u003c\/strong\u003e Plant 2m apart for a loose, flowering screen on an exposed boundary. Expect a billowing shape rather than a clipped hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCoastal gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e It grows on sandy soils near the coast in the wild, so seaside blocks and wind-blasted sites are where it feels at home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBanks and wildlife gardens.\u003c\/strong\u003e Use it on slopes that need holding and in native plantings built for birds, bees and small mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGrowing Tick Bush in Australia\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePosition and climate.\u003c\/strong\u003e Choose a bright or full sun position. It occurs naturally across Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales up to south east Queensland, so cool temperate, warm temperate and subtropical gardens suit it. It tolerates frost and copes with wind, rain and humidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil.\u003c\/strong\u003e It grows in sandy soil in the wild and is happy in most free draining soils. On heavy clay, plant on a mound so water drains away from the roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater and feed.\u003c\/strong\u003e Water regularly while it settles in, then let it manage on rainfall. It rarely needs fertiliser.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning.\u003c\/strong\u003e Prune after flowering to keep a good shape and encourage flowering next year. Avoid cutting into bare wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to expect when it arrives\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe sell Tick Bush as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once planted, in 140mm pots in packs of 10 and in 200mm pots in packs of 6. Tubes are the economical choice for a long screen or bank, and the bigger pots suit gardeners after a faster start. Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. A tube on backorder means the grower has none, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it returns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant care guides and related reading\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/australian-natives\"\u003eBrowse Australian native plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/plants-for-windbreaks\"\u003ePlants for windbreaks\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/native-bee-plants\"\u003eNative bee plants\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blog\/plants-for-native-bees-in-australian-gardens\"\u003eA year round guide to plants for native bees\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCommon questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow big will mine get?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt varies, from 1.5m to 3m tall and 2m to 4m wide. Give it room, and prune lightly after flowering if you need to hold it to a size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs it suitable for a seaside garden?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. It grows near the coast in the wild, tolerates harsh wind and heavy rain, and helps stabilise sandy ground and dunes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs there a smaller version?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Our Prostrate Tick Bush is the same species in a low, spreading form under 1m high, which suits small gardens and bank planting.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nursery Near Me","offers":[{"title":"Tube (Backorder)","offer_id":67790431715647,"sku":"KUN-AMB-tube","price":12.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false},{"title":"140mm (Pack of 10)","offer_id":67790437155135,"sku":"KUN-AMB-140MM-P10","price":217.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true},{"title":"200mm (Pack of 6)","offer_id":67790437187903,"sku":"KUN-AMB-200MM-P6","price":161.95,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/files\/tick-bush-kunzea-ambigua.jpg?v=1792208789"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0691\/2917\/5359\/collections\/Scarlet-Kunzea-Kunzea-baxteri.jpg?v=1794696410","url":"https:\/\/nurserynearme.com.au\/collections\/kunzea.oembed","provider":"Nursery Near Me","version":"1.0","type":"link"}