How to Grow Westringia - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Westringia is a plant in the family lamiaceae, native to australia. it was first described by james edward smith in 1797. the genus name honours martin westring (1753-1821), a swedish botanist. the species are commonly known as coast rosemary or native rosemary. they are shrubs growing to 1-3 m tall, with opposite, simple leaves 10-50 mm long and 2-20 mm wide. the flowers are produced in terminal clusters, each flower 5-6 mm long and blue, purple, pink or white.

How to Grow Westringia - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Westringia fruticosa
  • Westringia glabra
  • Westringia longifolia
  • Westringia naringa
  • Westringia rosmariniformis

Common Knowledge

  • Westringia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Lamiaceae.
  • The genus is native to Australia, New Zealand, and New Guinea.
  • Westringia species are shrubs or small trees.
  • The leaves are oppositely arranged and are often aromatic.
  • The flowers are typically white or blue and are borne in clusters.
  • Westringia species are popular garden plants.
  • They are tolerant of poor soils and dry conditions.
  • Westringia species are used as food plants by the larvae of some moth species.
  • Some Westringia species are considered weedy in some parts of the world.
  • The name Westringia honors Swedish botanist Carl Peter Thunberg (1743-1828).

Planting Process

  1. For westringia, first step is to choose a location. The location should get full sun for at least 6 hours a day.
  2. The second step is to prepare the soil. The soil should be well-drained and amended with organic matter.
  3. The third step is to plant the westringia.
  4. The fourth step is to water the westringia regularly.
  5. The fifth step is to fertilize the westringia monthly.
  6. The sixth step is to prune the westringia as needed.
  7. The seventh step is to deadhead the westringia regularly.
  8. The eighth step is to monitor for pests and diseases.
  9. The ninth step is to mulch the westringia.
  10. The tenth step is to enjoy the westringia!

Related plant:
Westringia Fruticosa

Soil Condition

About soil condition, westringia prefers well-drained soil, and can tolerate some drought once established. It can be sensitive to frost when young. It is a fast-growing plant, and responds well to regular pruning.

Light requirement

Just like other plants, westringias need sunlight to grow. They prefer bright, direct sunlight, but can also tolerate partial sun. If you live in an area with hot summers, it's best to plant your westringia in a spot where it will get some afternoon shade.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most conducive to growth for the species Westringia is warm temperature. The plant does not tolerate frost very well. If the temperature gets too cold, the leaves of the plant will start to turn brown and die.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 50%. If the humidity drops below 30%, the leaves will start to drop. If the humidity is too high (above 60%), the leaves will start to yellow and drop.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this type of plant does best with a balanced fertilizer that is applied monthly. A root-stimulating fertilizer can also be used every couple of months to encourage new growth. When it comes to watering, westringia are quite drought-tolerant once established. However, during the hot summer months, they will appreciate being watered on a weekly basis. If you notice the leaves starting to wilt, this is a sign that the plant is thirsty and needs a drink.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is a critical part of caring for a Westringia plant. By pruning, you can encourage the plant to grow in a certain direction, control its size, and shape its overall appearance. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle, just above a set of leaves.

The Propagation

Propagation is best done by taking softwood or semi-ripe cuttings in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be around 5-8 inches long. Place the cuttings in a well-drained soil mix and water regularly. Cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been conducted on cuttings, with reports of anywhere from 2 to 6 inches per week. However, some growers have seen this plant grow as much as a foot per week under optimal conditions. Fertilization can significantly impact growth rate, with studies showing that plants receiving high nitrogen levels can grow up to twice as fast as those without this nutrient. Additionally, ample sunlight and water are critical for optimal growth; plants that are deprived of either of these resources will likely experience stunted growth.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and root rot. These can be controlled with fungicides, but it is best to avoid them in the first place by choosing a well-drained site and not overwatering the plants.

Tips on Growing

  • Make sure to plant westringia in an area that receives full sun.
  • It is important to well-draining soil when growing westringia.
  • Be sure to water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry periods.
  • Fertilize westringia every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune the plant regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat accordingly.
  • Deadhead flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming.
  • Divide westringia every few years to keep the plant healthy and vigorous.
  • Overwinter westringia indoors in areas that experience freezing temperatures.
  • Enjoy the beautiful flowers and foliage of westringia in your garden!

Substitution

  • Westringia foliosa
  • Westringia fruticosa
  • Westringia glabra
  • Westringia glabrata
  • Westringia gracilis
  • Westringia greyii
  • Westringia intermedia
  • Westringia jumilae
  • Westringia lineata
  • Westringia longifolia

Source:
Westringia senifolia : School of BioSciences
CaliforniaColleges.edu
UAGC - Student Login

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