Care of the shrub Ozothamnus diosmifolius or Rice flower |
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The genus Ozothamnus, family Asteraceae, includes more than 50 species of shrubs native to Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia. Some species are: Ozothamnus diosmifolius, Ozothamnus cupressoides, Ozothamnus rogersianus, Ozothamnus secundiflorus, Ozothamnus alpinus, Ozothamnus ferrugineus. Common names: Rice flower, Sago bush, White dogwood, Pill flower. This species is narive to eastern Australia. They are compact evergreen shrubs that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The aromatic and leathery leaves, similar to those of Rosemary, are deep green on the upper side and pale green on the underside. The small white or pink flowers appear in clusters at the ends of the branches. They can bloom from spring to fall. They are used in bushy groups, as isolated specimens, to form screens, in pots for patios and terraces, and as cut flowers. Ozothamnus diosmifolius grows in full sun and semi-shade exposures. They resist low intensity frosts. The soil can be a normal well-drained garden soil with coarse sand and containing a little organic matter. They resist drought well; water moderately waiting for the substrate to be dry. Fertilize with a little compost at the end of winter or at the beginning of spring. Prune dry flowers to encourage the appearance of more flowers. At the end of winter, lightly prune the branches to maintain a compact habit. They are plants resistant to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated from seeds sown in spring and by cuttings in summer or spring. |
Images of the shrub Ozothamnus diosmifolius or Rice flower |
 Ozothamnus diosmifolius  Ozothamnus diosmifolius  Ozothamnus diosmifolius |