Pink Snow Rose Serissa

Pink Snow Rose Serissa (Serissa foetida 'Pink Snow Rose') is a small, hardy, flowering shrub about 60cm high and 40cm wide. Tiny dark green leaves are almost hidden from spring to autumn under delicate, starry, soft pink flowers. It is compact enough for a rockery, border or pot, and it is also a favourite for bonsai.

Why you'll love it

• Flowers for most of the year. Starry soft pink blooms cover the plant from spring to autumn, a long and generous show.
• Neat and compact. At 60cm high and 40cm wide it suits small gardens and tight beds, and it holds its shape without much help.
• Fine, dark green foliage. Tiny leaves make a dense backdrop that sets off the pink flowers and looks tidy even out of bloom.
• Many ways to grow it. It does well in the ground, in pots and as bonsai, so one plant can fit nearly any garden.
• Hardy and straightforward. A sturdy little shrub that keeps flowering with simple care.

Where it works best

Rockeries and low borders. Plant 40cm apart and the plants touch as they mature, forming a soft, flowery edge. Mulch between them to keep the roots cool.

Pots and patios. A glazed pot of serissa by a door or on a balcony gives months of flower. Use a good potting mix with plenty of organic matter.

Bonsai. The tiny leaves and fine branching make it an excellent bonsai subject. Prune after flowering to shape it.

Growing Pink Snow Rose Serissa in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade. It suits subtropical, warm temperate and Mediterranean gardens, and it tolerates only a light frost. In colder areas grow it in a pot that can be moved to shelter, or plant it against a warm wall.

Soil. Free-draining soil rich in organic matter is ideal. Dig in compost at planting time, and in pots use a quality potting mix with plenty of humus.

Water and feed. Mulch the roots, and water well, especially during dry periods. Do not let the root ball dry out completely, because serissa can drop its leaves when stressed. A light feed in spring helps flower production.

Pruning. Prune after flowering to keep the shape compact and to shape a bonsai. Light trimming is all it needs.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Pink Snow Rose Serissa as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Expect a small plant with tiny leaves on arrival, and flowers once it has settled into warm weather. Plant it in rich, well drained soil or pot it on straight away.

Tube stock comes from our grower and is not always available. When the grower has none, the tube shows as sold out on the page, and the notify button emails 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

• Plants that suit rockeries
• Plants for small gardens
• Low growing plants for garden borders
• More flowering plants

Common questions

Can I grow it as a bonsai?

Yes. Its tiny leaves and dense branching make it a popular bonsai plant. Prune after flowering and keep the roots moist but not soggy.

Does it smell?

The name 'foetida' refers to a faint unpleasant smell given off when the leaves are crushed. You will only notice it if you bruise or prune the foliage, and gloves help.

Will it survive frost?

Only a light frost. In colder climates grow it in a pot and shelter it through the winter.