Canberra Plant Selector

This hardy vigorous, low-growing form of Banksia integrifolia covers ground quickly and densely, producing bright yellow flower spikes in autumn/winter. Makes a great slope stabilizer, ground cover, pot specimen, or cascading over retaining walls or terraces. Works well in hot spots and exposed areas.

A weeping open shrub to 5m, with ball shaped red flowers in spring. A good drought tolerant plant once it is established, it likes a well drained soil and will not do well in waterlogged areas. Requires low humidity and a very well drained spot. Likes full sun to dappled shade. Prune back by _ after flowering to keep it looking its best.

Masses of pink buds open to the white starry flowers and these are set on a hardy, compact shrub with bright green aromatic foliage. It adapts well to a wide range of environments. This is a great feature shrub that can also be used as a cut flower. Plant it near paths where the pleasant aroma of the foliage will be released as you brush against it. Cut the plant back by 20-30% after flowering to encourage compact growth.

Evergreen rounded hybrid shrub with arching branches (2m x 1.5m) from two Chinese species. Glossy dark green leaves. Bell shaped white flowers tinged with pink followed by persistent coppery brown sepals. Useful as a screen, clipped hedge or contrast in shrubbery. Prefers a protected position. Remove old woody stems. Frost and drought tolerant.

A strong spreading small Fern which can develop a good cover in moist, shady areas. Gound-hugging and neat, it has merit as a slope stabilizer, a pleasant container plant, and a groundcover under a canopy. Extra water is appreciated in summer when it is growing actively.

Aussie Box’ Westringia can be pruned into a box hedge or left in its natural ball shape whilst staying compact and tidy. Produces mauve flowers throughout spring/summer and has a dense growth habit. Great alternative to exotic box plants as it has faster establishment time and requires less water and needs less pruning than other Westringias.