In this new article we will discuss a species that is gaining more attention thanks to its appearance and color.
It is a species from the genus Eremophila. This genus of more than 200 species is endemic to Australia, located in arid areas.
Eremophila nivea belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family, it is a small shrub of 1 to 1.5 meters in height and width, it has very hairy stems and leaves, which give it a very characteristic silvery color. Shrub with evergreen and lance-shaped linear leaves. The flowering, which occurs during winter and spring, is mauve or lilac in color, with long, tubular flowers.
Image of Eremophila nivea. Source: http://lepidoptera.butterflyhouse.com.au/plants/myop/myoporaceae.html
Like the vast majority of Eremophila it likes arid soils with very good drainage. Thus it will grow well in sandy soils. Its cultivation in humid and temperate areas can be very complicated, since in those areas the hairy foliage is subject to fungal diseases that are difficult to control.
To maximize the chances of success, Eremophila nivea should grow in a sunny and open location, where air circulation is continuous, so that the foliage remains as dry as possible. It is very drought-resistant, so no watering will be necessary, except for the always necessary establishment watering. This watering can last between 10 and 12 weeks.
It also grows well in rocky terrain as its roots allow good anchoring in this type of soil, so it adapts well to rock garden landscaping.
It is a frost-sensitive species, as it belongs to hardiness zone number 9, with an average annual minimum temperature range of -6.6 / -1.2°C.
Pruning of this shrub should be done in early autumn, in this way we will obtain a more compact plant with more abundant flowering.
It is advisable to plant it in groups with the aim of achieving a greater ornamental effect. At Sala Graupera we have this species available and recommend its use in sustainable gardening, both public and private, as its maintenance tasks can be minimal.