Tetratheca ciliata
Tetratheca ciliata · Elaeocarpaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around tetratheca ciliata and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, small and ciliate
- Blooming
- Spring to summer (pink to mauve)
- Mature size
- 0.5 to 1.5 m tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (mild climate, temperate zones)
- Origin
- Australia (New South Wales)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic
Care
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid excess moisture which promotes root rot.
Light
Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. Good light promotes generous blooming and compact development. Protect it from cold and drying winds.
Soil
Use light, well-draining substrate, slightly acidic (heather peat mixed with sand or clay pellets). Avoid chalky and compact soils which hinder growth.
Pruning
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove dead or damaged stems. Avoid severe pruning which slows growth.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season (spring-summer), about once a month. Reduce applications in autumn and stop in winter.
Diseases and pests
Watch for scale insects and spider mites indoors or in dry climates. Stagnant moisture can cause rot. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
Did you know?
Tetratheca ciliata is called "pink bells" or "clover ash" in Australia. Its scientific name "Tetratheca" comes from Greek and means "four boxes," referring to the tetrameric structure of the flower. This small wonder of Australia's coastal regions was once used by nurserymen to create delicate indoor floral arrangements.
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
- Chilean Lantern TreeCrinodendron hookerianum
- Elaeocarpus reticulatusElaeocarpus reticulatus
- Tetratheca junceaTetratheca juncea
- WineberryAristotelia serrata
- Elaeocarpus dentatusElaeocarpus dentatus
- Elaeocarpus hookerianusElaeocarpus hookerianus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.