Masquerade Geraldton Wax

Masquerade Geraldton Wax (Chamelaucium uncinatum 'Masquerade') is a compact Australian native shrub, about 1m high and wide, whose flowers change colour as they age. Bright white buds open to pale pink and gradually deepen to plum purple, so several shades show on the bush at once. It comes into bud in mid spring, later than most waxflowers, and suits pots and cottage gardens.

Why you'll love it

• Flowers that change colour. White, pink and plum purple blooms share the same branch, as each flower deepens with age.
• A compact 1m shrub. Much smaller than most waxflowers, it fits where larger varieties would swamp the space.
• A natural in pots. It was bred for pot growing, so it thrives on a deck, balcony or courtyard.
• A late bloomer. It is in bud by mid spring, which carries the waxflower season later than the early varieties.
• Cut flowers in mixed colours. Stems of mixed white, pink and purple blossom make an unusual bunch.

Where it works best

Pots and courtyards. Choose a pot 35cm or wider with free draining native mix, and stand it in full sun. Its small size keeps it in proportion with seating and steps.

Low flowering borders. Plant 80cm apart along a path or the front of a sunny bed. The colour change gives a border interest for weeks.

Cottage gardens. Its mixed colours blend with silver foliage, lavender and other soft planting, and the plant is small enough for a tight front garden.

Growing Masquerade Geraldton Wax in Australia

Position and climate. A sunny to partly shaded position suits it, with full sun giving the best colour. It grows in Mediterranean, warm temperate and arid climates and tolerates light frost. It prefers low humidity, so it is a challenge in damp subtropical gardens unless drainage and airflow are excellent.

Soil. Free draining soil is a must. Use a gritty native potting mix in containers, and raise the bed on heavy ground.

Water and feed. Water regularly and mulch the root zone for the first 12 weeks. After that it is drought resistant, though pots need more frequent watering. Fertilise yearly with a slow release native fertiliser.

Pruning. After flowering, prune lightly to encourage new growth and a dense flowering display next season. Avoid cutting into old wood.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Masquerade Geraldton Wax as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. It arrives as a small, compact plant and can go straight into a border or a pot. Keep it evenly moist through its first summer and expect flowering to build over the first season or two.

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

• Plants for small gardens
• Plants for pots and containers
• Plants for a cottage garden
• Choosing the right pot size

Common questions

Do the flowers really change colour?

Yes. White buds open pale pink, and the flowers gradually deepen to plum purple as they age, so the colour shifts through the season.

How big does it get?

About 1m high and wide, much smaller than most Geraldton wax, which makes it a good choice for a pot or a small garden.

Is Masquerade a good choice for a pot?

Yes. It stays around 1m, was bred for pot growing and likes sharp drainage, so a gritty native mix and a sunny spot suit it well. Water a pot more often than you would an in-ground plant.