Westringias Duo for Mediterranean Rockeries - Australian Rosemary

The Pair of Westringias – Australian Rosemary consists of two different varieties, which will blend their pastel blue and white flowerings. These tender bushes, native to Australia, are valued for their evergreen foliage of silvery-grey leaves and their delicate pastel flowering that extends from spring to autumn. Suitable for Mediterranean climates, they are drought-resistant but perish below -4 °C. Easy to maintain, these Westringias bring a natural and elegant touch to a large rockery, by the seaside. They can also be grown in pots, allowing them to be sheltered in colder regions.

The pair consists of:

1 x Westringia fruticosa: This bush reaches up to 1.5 m in height and spread. Its evergreen foliage is fine and silvery, resembling that of rosemary. Its very pale mauve to white flowering is discreet yet continuous, extending from spring to autumn.

1 x Westringia fruticosa Blanc: A cultivar with a more compact habit, reaching about 1 m in height. It is distinguished by its slightly broader leaves and its white flowering, which is more abundant than that of the classic variety. It also flourishes from spring to autumn.

Plant these Westringias in spring or autumn for better establishment. Position them in full sun within a large rockery or even in pots to enhance the terrace. Place the Westringia fruticosa, the larger of the two, at the back or centre of your arrangement, and the Westringia fruticosa Blanc at the front or on the sides. Maintain a spacing of 60 to 80 cm between each plant to ensure good air circulation and avoid fungal diseases. For a dense coverage, count on 3 plants per m².

To create an original and harmonious Mediterranean rockery, combine the pair of Westringias with Phlomis russeliana featuring their yellow whorled inflorescences against the fuzzy grey-green leaves. Plant three specimens behind the Westringias to add height and a contrast of texture. Add Euphorbia characias 'Emmer Green' with variegated flowers and foliage for structure; two plants alongside the Westringias will suffice for a structured effect. Finally, integrate Teucrium fruticans 'Azureum' (Shrubby Germander) with its silvery foliage and small indigo blue flowers, mixed with the Westringias, for a coherent and diverse ensemble. Place three Germander plants around the Westringias for a soft transition effect between the different heights and textures. These drought-resistant plants, suited to full sun, will compose a unique Mediterranean garden, full of charm and character. They can cover up to 10 m² of rockery.