© Melburnian, some rights reserved (CC-BY) · Wikimedia Commons
Phebalium spp.
Overview
Phebalium spp. is a genus of about 50 evergreen shrubs in the citrus family, Rutaceae, native to Australia and reaching small tree size in a few species. Plants are typically rounded to upright shrubs 1.5-13 feet (0.5-4 m) tall, with small, leathery leaves that are dotted with oil glands and aromatic when crushed, and young growth often covered in tiny silvery or rusty scales. From late winter into spring the branch tips carry clusters of small, five-petalled, star-shaped flowers in yellow, white, or pink, sometimes covering the shrub. The petals and flower stalks frequently bear the same scaly covering as the new growth. The genus grows in heath, dry forest, rocky outcrops, and woodland on well-drained sandy or stony soils across southern and eastern Australia. Most species prefer full sun to light shade and sharp drainage and tolerate dry periods once established. Phebalium spp. is grown in native gardens for its spring flowers and aromatic foliage, though it can be short-lived and is intolerant of wet, poorly drained soil. Some species are restricted to small areas and are of conservation concern. The oil-dotted leaves release a scent when bruised.
Native Range
Phebalium spp. is native to Australia, ranging across the southern and eastern states from coastal heath to inland ranges. Plants grow in heath, dry sclerophyll forest, rocky outcrops, and woodland on sandy or stony, well-drained soils.Suggested Uses
Phebalium spp. is grown in native and dryland gardens, rockeries, and shrub borders for its spring flowers and aromatic foliage. Lower species suit rock gardens and containers, while larger ones are used as informal screens.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'6" - 13'
Width/Spread1'6" - 10'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
yellow, white, or pinkFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Phebalium spp. grows in full sun to light shade on sandy or stony, sharply drained soil and tolerates dry periods once established. The genus needs good drainage and is intolerant of wet, heavy soils, where the roots rot. Plants suit warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and can be short-lived in cultivation. Light, regular tip pruning keeps them compact and prolongs their life. Few pests trouble the aromatic foliage. Most species need little water and no phosphorus-rich feeding.Pruning
Tip prune lightly after flowering to keep plants bushy and compact. Cutting back into bare old wood is avoided, since many species are slow to reshoot from it. Regular light trimming extends the useful life of the shrub.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons