Astartea Fascicularis, False Baeckea

An easy-to-grow Western Australian native medium shrub of the tea tree family. It has a neat and fresh appearance throughout the year and flowers during most months except those of extreme heat or cold. Inhabit it may be upright or spreading with an open framework of slender tapering branches. The plant can reach a height of 1 m with a spread of 1.5 m at 3 years old. The flowers are 1 cm across with five rounded white or pale pink petals, often tinged with a deeper pink at the base, and a green eye. All are arranged to face upwards along the stems in dainty sprays. Flowering is profuse in spring and autumn.

To grow Astartea fascicularis, or False Baeckea, in Melbourne and Sydney, choose a well-draining spot with partial to full sun. This plant prefers moist, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging. False Baeckea can tolerate light frosts but may benefit from protection during colder winters. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and promote new growth. This plant can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and spread, so give it enough space to thrive. False Baeckea produces small white flowers in clusters, adding a lovely touch to the garden. It is a hardy and low-maintenance plant, perfect for Australian gardens.

False Baeckea is available from Online Plants, Australia's leading e-commerce plant nursery. Located in Melbourne we offer fast, accurate and careful plant delivery to all Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Canberra and Brisbane, metropolitan and regional areas.

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