Rock Thryptomene

(Thryptomene saxicola)

Rock Thryptomene (Thryptomene saxicola)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Thryptomene saxicola image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Thryptomene saxicola, commonly known as Rock Thryptomene, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal and inland scrublands of Southwestern Australia. It thrives in a variety of soil types, including loam, sandy, and clay, and is often found in damp and dry places, around beaches, lakes, rivers, on rocky outcrops, slopes, and dunes. This plant typically grows to a height of 0.3–1.5 m (1 ft 0 in – 4 ft 11 in) and features small, oval to egg-shaped leaves that are 5–10 mm (0.20–0.39 in) long, with the narrower end towards the base. The Rock Thryptomene is notable for its pale pink to white flowers, which are arranged in leaf axils and consist of five sepals, five more or less circular petals, and ten stamens. The flowers are not particularly showy but provide a delicate appearance and bloom mainly from February to November, with sporadic flowering in other months.

Rock Thryptomene is valued for its resilience and the subtle beauty of its pale pink flowers. It is widely cultivated in gardens throughout Australia and internationally, often used as a low hedge or for adding texture to mixed borders. This shrub is moderately frost-tolerant and can withstand a range of conditions, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate low to medium water availability. While it grows best in full sun or part shade, it is adaptable to various light conditions. Propagation is commonly achieved through cuttings. Gardeners should be aware that although it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-5 feet
  • Width: 2-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal and inland scrublands of Southwestern Australia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Thryptomene saxicola , Thryptomene miqueliana , Baeckea saxicola , Astraea saxicola , Bucheria saxicola , Eremopyxis camphorata , Gomphotis saxicola , Paryphantha camphorata , Scholtzia decandra

GBIF Accepted Name: Thryptomene saxicola (A.Cunn. ex Hook.) Schauer