Blue Emu Bush

(Eremophila hygrophana)

Blue Emu Bush (Eremophila hygrophana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Eremophila hygrophana, commonly known as Blue Emu Bush, is an evergreen shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, including plains and rocky outcrops in Australia. It typically grows to a height of between 0.3 and 1.2 meters (1 and 4 feet) and is characterized by its erect, compact form with crowded, silvery-grey leaves. The Blue Emu Bush produces violet to purple flowers that are borne singly in leaf axils and are sessile, meaning they lack a stalk. The petal tube is pale violet to purple on the outside and paler with spotted purple inside. As the flowers age, they change color to dark reddish-brown. Flowering occurs from July to December, and the plant is followed by oval-shaped to cone-shaped fruits with a hairy covering.

The Blue Emu Bush is highly valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage and large, showy purple flowers that bloom for an extended period. It is a popular choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a feature plant in water-wise landscapes due to its drought tolerance. This shrub is also used for habitat restoration in its native range. It requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for gardeners seeking low-care plants. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun, with low water requirements, and prefers well-drained soils. While it is tolerant of light frost, it may require light pruning to remove frost-damaged branches. Propagation is commonly achieved through cuttings in warm weather or by grafting onto Myoporum rootstock, which can improve performance in heavy soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to arid and semi-arid regions, including plains and rocky outcrops in Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Lipstick

Scientific Names: , Eremophila hygrophana,

GBIF Accepted Name: Eremophila hygrophana Chinnock