Cassinia aculeata
Cassinia aculeata · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around cassinia aculeata and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae (Aster family)
- Habit
- Compact and dense shrub
- Foliage
- Evergreen, fine and needle-like
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (September to November in Southern Hemisphere)
- Mature size
- 1 to 2 m tall, 1 to 1.5 m wide
- Origin
- Australia (New South Wales and Victoria)
- Hardiness
- Moderate, temperate to mild climate
- Growth rate
- Moderate
Care
Light
Cassinia aculeata thrives in full sun or light shade. A sunny exposure promotes more generous flowering and a more compact habit. Protect the plant from cold, violent winds that can damage its fine foliage.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but well-drained. Reduce watering in winter or during dry periods. This Australian plant tolerates drought well once established, but appreciates moderate and consistent water supply.
Soil
Prefer well-drained soil, neutral to slightly acidic. A mix containing sand, peat, and heather soil works perfectly. Avoid compact or chalky soils that could slow growth.
Pruning and structure
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a dense and balanced habit. Remove dead or damaged branches. Moderate pruning encourages branching and rejuvenates the shrub without stripping it bare.
Fertilization
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer once or twice in spring and early summer during the growing season. A well-established plant in good soil doesn't require intensive fertilization. Avoid over-fertilizing, which could reduce hardiness.
Diseases and pests
Cassinia is generally disease-resistant. Watch for scale insects and aphids on new growth in warm climates. Good drainage and adequate air circulation prevent root rot. Treat infestations promptly with appropriate sprays.
Did you know?
Cassinia aculeata, called "dogwood" or "sweet bursaria" depending on the Australian region, has finely needle-like leaves that release a subtle aroma when crushed. This shrub was traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples for various applications. Its name "aculeata" refers to its characteristic small spines.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
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- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.