How to grow crowea
Overview
Crowea exalata is a small, evergreen shrub from the Rutaceae family, valued for its fine foliage and star-shaped pink flowers that appear from late autumn into spring. It serves as an excellent filler plant in native and mixed garden beds, providing texture and linking bolder feature plants.
Varieties
- Crowea exalata 'Southern Stars' — Compact form with deep pink flowers, ideal for small gardens and pots.
- Crowea exalata 'Pink Blush' — Paler pink blooms, good for mass planting under trees.
Soil Preparation
Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0). Amend with compost or well-rotted leaf litter to improve drainage. Avoid lime or alkaline soils; if needed, add sulfur to lower pH. Good drainage is critical—raised beds help in heavy soils.
Growing Guide
Position Crowea in part shade with morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon heat. Plant in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter; space 60–80 cm apart. Water regularly until established, then reduce to moderate. Mulch lightly to keep roots cool. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites.
Sowing
Sow seed in spring (cool zones) or autumn (subtropical) in a seed-raising mix. Press lightly, do not cover deeply. Germination takes 3–6 weeks at 18–22°C. Transplant when 10 cm tall. Direct sowing is less reliable; use punnets.
Care
Feed with a slow-release native fertiliser in early spring. Lightly prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and remove spent blooms. No heavy pruning needed—just tip-trim to encourage bushy growth.
Companion Planting
Pair with Correa alba, Grevillea 'Poorinda Royal', and Westringia fruticosa for a cohesive native border. Avoid planting near heavy feeders like citrus that demand high fertility, as Crowea prefers low-nutrient conditions.
Common Pests & Risks
Scale insects can cluster on stems and leaves; treat with horticultural oil or soap spray. Root rot from Phytophthora may occur in poorly drained soils—ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Monitor for aphids on new growth in spring.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: often caused by poor drainage or overwatering—check soil moisture and improve drainage. Brown leaf edges: from salt burn or dry air—increase humidity or flush soil. Stunted growth: may indicate root rot—ensure well-drained site. Few flowers: too much shade or over-fertilising—move to brighter spot and reduce feed.