Goodenia ovata
Goodenia ovata · Goodeniaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant goodenia ovata: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Goodeniaceae
- Plant type
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (August-December in southern hemisphere)
- Mature size
- 0.5 to 1 m in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Tender (warm temperate climate)
- Origin
- Australia (New South Wales)
Care
Light exposure
Goodenia ovata prefers a sunny to partially shaded location for optimal flowering. It tolerates direct exposure well but appreciates some shade during very hot periods. Avoid overly dark areas which would slow growth and flowering.
Watering
Water regularly, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, particularly during growth and flowering periods. Reduce watering in winter or off-season. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Soil and substrate
Use well-draining potting soil enriched with organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral soil works perfectly. You can improve drainage by adding sand or perlite if the potting soil retains too much moisture.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in phosphorus every 2 to 3 weeks during active growth (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn-winter. Moderate feeding is sufficient; Goodenia is not a heavy feeder.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back young stems regularly to encourage a compact, bushy habit. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. A light pruning in late winter helps rejuvenate the plant and maintain its neat form.
Diseases and pests
Goodenia ovata can be prone to spider mites in overly dry conditions. Also watch for aphids and whiteflies. Good drainage and adequate air circulation limit the risk of rot and fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Goodenia ovata is native to the south-eastern Australian coastal watershed and is named after botanist Samuel Goodenough, who supported 18th-century botanical expeditions. This plant is little known in European horticulture, but it deserves discovery for its delicate pale yellow flowers and easy-going temperament in Mediterranean or warm temperate climates.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.