Plants
Woolybush / Adenanthos sericeus
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Geographical origins: Australia.
Adult dimensions: Height up to 1.2m, width up to 1m.
Foliage: Evergreen.
Soil type: Light, stony, sandy, must be well-drained.
Climate: Hardy down to -4°C, protect from frost.
Exposure: Full light.
Properties and uses:
Native to the arid regions of Australia, the Woolybush is an evergreen shrub remarkable for its ornamental and tactile appeal. A true botanical curiosity, it stands out for its exceptionally soft foliage, comparable to fur or silk, which irresistibly invites touch. Combining graphic aesthetics with high drought tolerance, it is the ideal candidate for coastal gardens and low-maintenance contemporary spaces.- Incomparable softness: Its silver-tinted grey-green foliage is made up of fine, flexible, and silky needles, completely devoid of prickles. A true botanical velvet.
- Subtle and generous flowering: From June to September (and often starting in spring), small, bright red tubular flowers bloom directly along its branches, creating a beautiful color contrast. Highly melliferous, they are rich in nectar and irresistibly attract pollinators and butterflies.
- Ideal for coastal areas: It loves the sun and shows excellent resistance to sea spray and wind. Once established, it tolerates short periods of drought well.
In regions prone to hard frosts, it is better to grow it in a pot to overwinter it in a conservatory or an unheated room. Otherwise, it must be protected with a frost fleece.
In mild climates, the Woolybush fits perfectly into borders alongside purple New Zealand Flax, mounded Pittosporum, or Agapanthus, offering a magnificent interplay of shapes, colors, and textures. -
