Fringe-Myrtle

(Calytrix tetragona)

Fringe-Myrtle (Calytrix tetragona)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Calytrix tetragona, commonly known as Fringe-Myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to a variety of habitats including heathland, open woodlands, and dry sclerophyll forests across Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia. It typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and a width of 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters), with a dense, bushy habit that can provide substantial ground cover. The plant is notable for its fine, needle-like foliage and profuse star-shaped flowers, which are most commonly pink or white and appear in the spring. The flowers are considered quite showy and can add a splash of color to the garden.

Fringe-Myrtle is valued for its low maintenance requirements and its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a popular choice for rockeries, native gardens, and as a feature shrub in mixed borders. It is drought-tolerant once established, requiring only occasional watering. This shrub prefers well-drained soils and full sun to part shade conditions. While it is generally pest and disease-free, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Fringe-Myrtle can be pruned to maintain shape and encourage denser growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 5-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Heathland, open woodlands, and dry sclerophyll forests across Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Common Fringe-Myrtle

Scientific Names: , Calytrix tetragona, Calycothrix tetragona, Calycothrix scabra, Calytrix glabra, Calytrix scabra, Calycothrix glabra, Calytrix sullivanii, Calytrix ericoides, Calycothrix behriana

GBIF Accepted Name: Calytrix tetragona Labill.