Clustered Darwinia

Clustered Darwinia (Darwinia fascicularis) is a neat, bushy native shrub from the Sydney region, growing 0.5 to 1.5m tall and 1 to 2m wide. Clusters of tiny white flowers age to pink above soft, conifer-like needle foliage, and birds and bees work them from winter to spring. It is low maintenance and hardy in any well drained spot.

Why you'll love it

• Flowers that change colour. White flowers age to pink, so a bush carries both colours at once, and long stamens stand out from every flower.
• Feeds birds and bees. Nectar-feeding birds and bees visit through winter and spring, when the garden otherwise has less to offer.
• Fine, soft foliage. The needle-like leaves look like a conifer's but feel soft, giving a fine texture beside broad-leaved plants.
• Low maintenance. It is usually pest and disease resistant and needs only a light tidy after flowering.
• A local native. It grows naturally in New South Wales, particularly around Sydney, so it suits a natural-style garden.

Where it works best

Groups and verges. Plant 1m apart in groups of three or more for a bushy mass that brightens a verge or front boundary. It also looks good as a single feature plant.

Understorey planting. It tolerates dappled shade beneath taller trees, adding a layer of fine foliage and winter flower.

Windbreak and bird gardens. Its bushy habit makes a natural windbreak in a mixed native planting, and the nectar draws birds to the garden.

Growing Clustered Darwinia in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to dappled shade. It comes from the Sydney region and suits warm temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean gardens. Protect it from frost, particularly while young, and in cooler districts choose a sheltered corner against a wall.

Soil. Any well drained soil will do, and sandy or granite-based soils suit it best. Poor drainage is the main risk, so raise the planting site on heavy ground.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until established, usually around 12 weeks. Mulch again in spring to keep the roots cool, and feed with a slow release native fertiliser in winter.

Pruning. Tip prune lightly after flowering, from late summer to early autumn, to encourage a bushier habit. Avoid heavy cutting, because the plant needs its fine foliage.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Clustered Darwinia as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly once it is in a sunny, free draining position. Expect a small plant at first, which bushes out as it settles and builds toward its mature shape.

Our tube stock is supplied by our grower, so availability comes and goes. If the tube shows as sold out when you visit, use the notify button on the page and we will email you the day it is back.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Browse Australian native shrubs
• Plants that attract birds
• Bee and butterfly friendly plants
• Top bird-attracting native plants

Common questions

How big does it get?

Between 0.5 and 1.5m tall and 1 to 2m wide. Give it room to spread, and use light pruning to hold it to the lower end if space is tight.

Does it need frost protection?

Yes, protect it from frost, especially when young. In cooler regions plant it in a sheltered position, or grow it in a pot that can move under cover.

When should I prune it?

Lightly, after flowering, from late summer to early autumn. Only tip prune, because heavy cuts into bare wood can leave gaps.