Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea

Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea (Kunzea baxteri '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.

Why you'll love it

• Winter colour. 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.
• Compact and neat. A rounded 1m shrub with tiny, neat leaves suits front gardens and borders where the full sized species would sprawl.
• Food for wildlife. Birds, bees and butterflies visit the flowers, so it is a good pick for native and wildlife gardens.
• Drought hardy. Once established it copes with dry weather, which makes it a good choice for low water gardens.
• Informal low hedging. The dense, cushiony form clips lightly into a soft low hedge or border edge.

Where it works best

Low hedges and borders. Plant 80cm apart in a single row for an informal hedge about 1m high. A light trim after flowering keeps it tight.

Low water gardens. Pair it with other drought hardy natives in a bed that gets only occasional watering.

Native and wildlife gardens. Plant it in a group of three where birds and insects will find the winter flowers.

Coastal gardens. It prefers dry sandy soil and a dry coastal climate, so it suits seaside gardens with good drainage.

Growing Mandy's Surprise Dwarf Scarlet Kunzea in Australia

Position and climate. 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.

Soil. 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.

Water and feed. 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.

Pruning. Tip prune lightly after flowering to keep it dense and rounded. Avoid cutting into old, leafless wood, which rarely reshoots.

What to expect when it arrives

We 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.

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

• More Australian native plants
• Plants that attract birds
• Designing a native garden for wildlife
• Drought tolerant plants

Common questions

Why is it slow to flower?

Mandy'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.

Will it grow in the subtropics?

It 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.

Is it a good hedging plant?

It suits informal low hedging at about 1m. Space plants 80cm apart and trim lightly after flowering.