Correa reflexa
Correa reflexa · Rutaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around correa reflexa and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Autumn to spring (depending on climate)
- Adult size
- 1 to 2 m in height and width
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Temperate to warm climate, low frost tolerance
- Origin
- Australia (New South Wales)
- Soil type
- Well-draining, light, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate slightly moist during growth, particularly during the flowering period. Reduce watering in winter, allowing it to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid excess water, which promotes root rot. Effective drainage in the pot or soil is essential.
Light exposure
Place Correa reflexa in a sunny to partially shaded location, ideally with at least 4 to 6 hours of direct light per day. In very hot climates, partial afternoon shade can prevent leaf drying. Good light promotes abundant flowering.
Soil and substrate
Choose well-draining, light, slightly acidic soil or substrate. Add sand, perlite, or fibrous organic matter to improve aeration. Avoid overly chalky or compacted soils that promote root asphyxia.
Pruning and training
Prune after flowering to maintain a compact and balanced shape. Remove dead or diseased branches first. Light pruning stimulates branching and denser flowering the following year.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced or phosphorus-rich fertilizer during growth and flowering, every 3 to 4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter. Prefer light formulations, as this plant is not a heavy feeder.
Pests and diseases
Correa reflexa can be affected by scale insects or spider mites in dry conditions. Watch for these pests and intervene quickly with appropriate treatment. Excess moisture promotes fungal rot: maintain good air circulation.
Did you know?
Correa reflexa is remarkable for its small tubular flowers, often red or orange, which curl slightly in response to light or touch (hence the name 'reflexa'). In Australia, its sweet nectar attracts birds and insects, making it an ecological asset in botanical gardens worldwide.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.