Exocarpos strictus
Exocarpos strictus · Santalaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around exocarpos strictus and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Strict Exocarpos
- Family
- Santalaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer
- Adult size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Temperate to warm zones
- Origin
- Australia (endemic)
Care
Light exposure
Place your Exocarpos strictus in full sun or partial shade to encourage balanced growth and generous flowering. This Australian species appreciates bright conditions but also tolerates slightly reduced light.
Watering
Water regularly during the active growing season, keeping the substrate moist but well-drained. Reduce watering in winter and adjust frequency according to local climate conditions and natural humidity.
Soil and drainage
Prefer well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. A permeable substrate enriched with organic matter facilitates establishment and promotes good long-term root health.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove dead or damaged branches in spring and balance the form as needed.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and early summer to support growth. Light fertilization is sufficient; avoid excess feeding that would promote lush foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for scale insects and spider mites in dry conditions. Ensure good air circulation around the foliage and check the plant regularly to intervene quickly if infestation occurs.
Did you know?
Exocarpos strictus, like other species in the Exocarpos genus, possesses a remarkable characteristic: its fruits develop on a fleshy, colored stalk called a fleshy aril, giving the fruiting an appearance that fascinated European botanists discovering Australian flora. This original adaptation long puzzled classifiers regarding the systematics of the Santalaceae family.
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.