Ceratopetalum gummiferum.
Albery’s Red is an evergreen, native, large shrub that will grow approximately 3-5 m high and about 2m wide.
Useful for screening, native gardens, cut flowers and garden beds.
In Spring the plant produces a mass of white flowers followed by red flower bracts through the summer.
Plant in a full sun to part shade position and prune after flowering.
It will tolerate light frosts and periods of dryness once established.
NSW Christmas Bush (*Ceratopetalum gummiferum*) thrives in full sun to partial shade. For the best flower and bract color, choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. This native shrub is ideal for garden beds, borders, or as a feature plant in larger landscapes. Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil, as NSW Christmas Bush does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
NSW Christmas Bush prefers a warm, temperate to subtropical climate and grows best in temperatures between 15°C and 30°C. It is frost-sensitive when young, so protect young plants in cooler climates. In suitable climates, this shrub produces cream-white flowers in spring, which develop into vibrant red or pink bracts in summer, adding festive color to the garden.
Plant NSW Christmas Bush in well-draining soil. It adapts well to sandy or loamy soils, as long as they are slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) and low in phosphorus. Enriching the soil with compost or other organic matter can improve soil quality and support growth, but avoid heavy fertilisers as this native plant is sensitive to high nutrient levels.
Feed NSW Christmas Bush sparingly with a native-specific, low-phosphorus fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and flowering. Organic options, such as compost or seaweed solution, can also be beneficial. Avoid fertilisers high in phosphorus, as they can harm this Australian native.
Water NSW Christmas Bush regularly during its first year to help it establish. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions reasonably well but benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, as it can cause root rot.
Prune lightly after the bracts fade to maintain a neat, compact shape. Removing spent flowers encourages bushier growth and helps the plant develop a fuller appearance. Regular pruning also keeps the size manageable.
Generally resistant to pests and diseases, NSW Christmas Bush may occasionally face issues with scale insects or sooty mold. Treat these promptly with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Adequate air circulation minimizes the risk of fungal problems.
Fruit, Herbs and Vegetables, Feature Trees
Feature Trees, Shrubs, Hedging and Screening
Feature Trees, Native Plants
Feature Trees, Native Plants
Feature Trees, Native Plants
Feature Trees
Feature Trees
Feature Trees, Native Plants
Feature Trees
Feature Trees, Native Plants
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