Product details
Product Overview
Ceratopetalum gummiferum Alberys Red NSW Christmas Bush is a small, evergreen Australian native tree renowned for its spectacular red bracts, which appear in late spring and summer. These bracts surround small white star-shaped flowers and provide a vibrant splash of colour during the festive season, making it a popular plant for cut flower arrangements and garden displays.
Growth:
This plant typically grows to a height of 3 to 5 metres and can spread up to 2 metres wide, forming a dense, rounded shrub or small tree.
Light Requirements:
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade. For the best flowering, ensure the plant receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Soil Requirements:
'NSW Christmas Bush' prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It is tolerant of mildly acidic to neutral pH levels and performs well in raised beds if the soil does not drain freely.
Water Requirements:
Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant. However, regular watering during dry spells will improve the plant’s overall health and encourage better flowering.
Frost Tolerance:
This variety can tolerate light frosts, making it suitable for temperate climates.
Drought Tolerance:
NSW Christmas Bush is moderately drought-tolerant once established but benefits from additional watering during prolonged dry periods.
Flowering Information:
White flowers appear in spring and are followed by the iconic bright red bracts in summer, which last through the festive season. These are perfect for cut flowers and decorative wreaths.
Spacing Requirements:
For screening or hedging, space plants around 2 to 3 metres apart to allow for their natural spread.
Fertiliser Requirements:
Feed with a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertiliser in spring and summer to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Care and Maintenance:
Prune about 30% of the plant after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth. Mulching around the base will help retain moisture and protect the roots during hot weather.
