Lipstick Boronia

Lipstick Boronia (Boronia hybrid 'Lipstick') is a tall, slender native shrub that glows deep pink through the cold months. It reaches about 2.5m tall but only 0.5m wide, and from winter into spring it carries lightly scented, rounded, magenta pink bells over small aromatic leaves. It was bred from Boronia heterophylla crossed with Boronia crassipes.

Why you'll love it

• Colour in the cold season. The deep pink magenta bells open in winter and spring, when most gardens are at their quietest.
• Light fragrance. Flowers and the aromatic leaves release a gentle scent, particularly in the warmth of a sheltered corner.
• Slim by design. At only 0.5m wide it fits narrow beds, courtyards and large pots where a bulkier shrub would not.
• Cut flowers for the house. Cut the flowering stems to enjoy indoors. It is also the simplest way to prune.
• A native that suits cottage gardens. It sits comfortably among soft planting and attracts native wildlife.

Where it works best

Sheltered borders. Plant 60cm apart for a slim, flowering row against a fence or wall, out of drying wind and hot afternoon sun. The upright habit keeps it tidy without staking.

Large pots. A big container with free draining, slightly acid mix gives you control over the soil and lets you place it at eye level. It suits a courtyard or entry.

Native and cottage gardens. Combine it with grevilleas, correas and other native shrubs, or with softer perennials, in dappled light.

Growing Lipstick Boronia in Australia

Position and climate. Choose a sheltered spot in dappled shade. It tolerates a light frost. Boronias like a cool root run and dislike hot, exposed sites, so in warm, dry districts shelter it from afternoon sun and wind, and expect it to need more care than a typical native.

Soil. Free draining, slightly acid soil with plenty of organic matter gives the best results. Mulch tubestock with gravel after planting to keep roots cool and moist as the young plant establishes.

Water and feed. Water regularly. Do not let the plant dry out or become waterlogged, because both extremes are hard on boronias. After pruning, apply a slow release native fertiliser and fresh mulch.

Pruning. Prune once flowering has finished to shape the plant and encourage new growth. Cut flowering stems for the vase and the job is done.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Lipstick Boronia as tube stock only: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a small, slim shrub, not at flowering size. Plant it promptly in the right spot, gravel mulch around the base, and keep the soil moist but never soggy through its first summer. Flowers build as the plant gains height.

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

• Growing uncommon Australian natives
• More fragrant plants
• Australian native shrubs
• Plants for partial shade

Common questions

How wide does it spread?

Not far. It reaches about 2.5m tall and only 0.5m wide, so it suits narrow positions. Allow a little more room if you want air to move around each plant.

Why do boronias have a reputation for being fussy?

They dislike both drying out and waterlogging, and they want cool roots. Mulch, shelter, free draining soil and regular watering take care of most problems.

Can I cut it back hard?

Prune lightly after flowering, and cut the flowering stems for indoors. As with many natives, avoid cutting into bare old wood, which may not reshoot.