Sirius Boronia

Sirius Boronia (Boronia hybrid 'Sirius') carries clean, clear white bells over a compact, bushy shrub of about 1m by 1m. It is named for the brightest star in the night sky, and in late winter and early spring the flowers do the same job in the garden, lighting up shaded corners when little else is in bloom. The small leaves are evergreen and aromatic, and the flowers are lightly scented.

Why you'll love it

• Clean white flowers. A bright, clear white rather than cream or blush, which stands out against dark foliage and shaded fences.
• Lights up shade. White shows best in dappled light, so it brightens the spots that other flowers leave dull.
• Late winter colour. Bells open in late winter and carry into early spring, ahead of most of the garden.
• Compact and bushy. At 1m by 1m it forms a neat mound that suits tight beds.
• Pots and wildlife gardens. It is a good large-pot plant and fits wildlife-friendly, native and cottage plantings.

Where it works best

Shaded corners. Plant 70cm apart along a shaded boundary or beneath open trees, where the white bells will be seen from windows and paths.

Large pots. A pot of 40cm or more by the front door gives a white winter display. Use native potting mix and keep it evenly moist.

White and silver schemes. Pair it with silver-grey foliage and other pale flowers for a calm planting that glows at dusk.

Growing Sirius Boronia in Australia

Position and climate. Dappled shade in a sheltered spot. Sirius tolerates a light frost, though a protected position avoids frost damage in an exposed bed. It suits Mediterranean and temperate gardens and prefers cool summers to hot ones.

Soil. Free-draining, slightly acid soil with plenty of organic matter, or a native potting mix in a container. A gravel mulch over the roots of the young plant keeps the soil cool and moist.

Water and feed. Regular water, never allowing the soil to dry out or become waterlogged, with extra in hot spells. After flowering, follow with a slow release fertiliser for natives and a fresh mulch.

Pruning. Once flowering has finished, prune to shape and encourage new growth. Cut some white stems for the house at the same time.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Sirius Boronia as tube stock and in 140mm pots in packs of 10. Tube stock is a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly, while the 140mm pots are bigger plants for quicker results.

Tubes are supplied by our grower and are sometimes unavailable. A sold out tube means none are on hand at the moment, and the notify button on the page emails you the day stock returns.

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 pots
• More Australian natives
• Shade gardening in Australia: what to plant where
• Plants for part shade

Common questions

Why is it called Sirius?

Sirius is the Dog Star, the brightest star in the night sky, and the name suits the bright white flowers.

Does it go with the pink boronias?

Yes. Pair it with a pink form such as Celebration or Magenta Stars for a white and pink display that peaks in late winter.

Can it handle frost?

It tolerates a light frost. In an open, frost-prone position choose a sheltered spot, such as against a fence, to protect the flowers.