Ozothamnus coralloides
ABOUT
Ozothamnus coralloides, commonly known as the coral shrubby everlasting, has a distinctive and striking appearance. This plant typically features a dense and bushy form, composed of numerous slender stems that give it a somewhat delicate and intricate structure. The stems are adorned with small, narrow leaves that are often gray-green to silver in color, contributing to the plant's soft and textured look. The coral shrubby everlasting is most recognized for its beautiful clusters of tiny flowers, which can range in color from white to pinkish shades. These flowers are tightly packed into rounded or dome-shaped heads that sit atop the stems, creating a prolific and showy display that can appear coral-like in abundance and form. The blossoms can have a papery texture and are often favored for use in dried flower arrangements due to their long-lasting qualities. Overall, the coral shrubby everlasting has a charming and feathery appearance, with its fine foliage and profuse flower clusters creating a frothy, sea-coral impression in the landscape. Its visual appeal is enhanced when in full bloom, often attracting various pollinators to the garden. However, the plant's specific dimensions, which can be intrinsic to fully appreciating its scale and presence in a garden setting, are not included in this description.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Coral Heath, Mountain Everlasting
Common names
Helichrysum coralloides
ToxicityTo humans
Ozothamnus coralloides, commonly known as Coral Heath, is not widely recognized for its toxicity to humans. However, lacking prominent reports of toxic effects or specific studies, it is generally advisable to avoid ingesting this or any ornamental plant due to potential unknowns regarding its chemical makeup. If Coral Heath is suspected to have been ingested and symptoms of poisoning appear, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Symptoms could vary widely depending on the toxicity of the particular plant species or individual. In general, plant poisoning symptoms might include gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
To pets
Coral Heath, or Ozothamnus coralloides, does not have well-documented toxic effects on pets in commonly available literature. Since comprehensive information about its toxicity to animals is not well-established, it would be prudent to prevent pets from ingesting this plant. If a pet does consume any part of Coral Heath and displays signs of poisoning, which may include but are not limited to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, appetite loss, or lethargy, it is essential to contact a veterinarian promptly. The vet can provide guidance on monitoring and potentially treating any toxic reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet 0.91 meters
Spread
2 feet 0.61 meters
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Ozothamnus coralloides, also known as Coral Shrub, adds visual interest to gardens with its striking coral-colored flowers and evergreen foliage.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The plant provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, serving as a valuable food source in the ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Coral Shrub is known for being drought-tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering and care, which can conserve resources.
- Erosion Control: The dense growth habit of Ozothamnus coralloides can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in sloped or exposed gardens.
- Year-Round Interest: With its evergreen nature and long-lasting flowers, the Coral Shrub provides color and structure in the garden throughout the year.
- Landscape Design: The unique appearance of the Coral Shrub can be used in landscape design to create focal points or to complement other plants.
- Adaptability: Ozothamnus coralloides is adaptable to a variety of soil types, though it prefers well-drained conditions, making it suitable for many garden settings.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Ozothamnus coralloides, commonly known as Rice Flower, can be used in dried floral arrangements, as its papery blooms maintain their shape and color well after drying.
- It can be planted in gardens as a natural insect repellent, as some gardeners believe that the scent of the leaves is unappealing to certain pests.
- This plant serves as a habitat for wildlife, offering shelter for small animals like insects and birds within its dense foliage.
- The essential oils from Rice Flower can be used in perfumery, offering a unique, subtle fragrance note.
- Rice Flower may be utilized in potpourri mixtures, contributing to visual appeal and a mild, pleasing scent.
- Landscape designers often plant Rice Flower as a border shrub to provide structured aesthetic without the need for frequent pruning.
- Its branches and flowers are used in craft activities such as wreath making due to their durability and attractive appearance.
- In eco-printing, the leaves and flowers of Rice Flower can be used to create natural prints on fabrics or paper.
- Rice Flower is sometimes included in ornamental garden designs to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Gardeners may use this plant for slope stabilization in landscape projects due to its root system that helps prevent soil erosion.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Coral Shrub is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Coral Shrub is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Ozothamnus coralloides, commonly known as Coral Heath, is a plant that thrives in tough conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and persevere through challenges.
- Survival: Known for its resilience, Coral Heath often grows in poor soils, representing survival against the odds.
- Adaptability: With its capacity to adapt to various environments, Coral Heath is a symbol of flexibility and the willingness to adjust to changing circumstances.
- Purity: The delicate white flowers of Coral Heath can represent purity and innocence, evoking a sense of serenity and simplicity.
- Beauty in simplicity: Despite its unassuming appearance, Coral Heath has a subtle beauty, symbolizing the idea that there is elegance in simplicity.
- Protection: Coral Heath's robust nature conveys a sense of protection and safety, suggesting the plant's qualities can be harnessed to shield and safeguard.
WaterThe Coral Shrub should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Generally, a deep watering every week, with 1-2 gallons depending on the size and age of the plant, is sufficient. During hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be required. It is essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Water early in the morning to allow foliage to dry out over the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
LightCoral Shrub thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. For optimal growth, it should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Some afternoon shade is beneficial in extremely hot climates to prevent scorching.
TemperatureCoral Shrubs prefer a moderate temperature range but can tolerate temperatures as low as the mid-20s in Fahrenheit for brief periods. Ideal growing conditions are between 60°F and 75°F. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme heat or cold, as it can be damaged by temperatures above 90°F or recurring frosts below freezing.
PruningThe Coral Shrub benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and promote denser foliage. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape as desired. Pruning can be done annually or biennially depending on the desired size and shape.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Mountain Rose requires well-drained soil with a mix of standard potting soil, peat, and perlite or sand to improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 5.5 to 7.0 is ideal for this plant's growth.
RepottingMountain Roses should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when they outgrow their current pot to ensure continued health and space for root development.
Humidity & MistingMountain Roses prefer moderate to low humidity levels and are tolerant of the dry air found in most home environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleOzothamnus coralloides, commonly known as Coral Heath, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in well-drained soils after dispersal. The seedling then develops into a juvenile plant with a rosette of leaves close to the ground. As it matures, Coral Heath grows into a woody shrub with slender stems and numerous small, scale-like leaves. The adult plant reaches reproductive maturity and produces clusters of tiny, aromatic flowers that attract pollinators, leading to seed formation. After pollination and seed set, the seeds are dispersed to new locations, and the parent plant eventually dies back, completing its life cycle. This perennial shrub can also spread vegetatively through its root system, allowing for the establishment of new plants nearby.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagation for Ozothamnus coralloides, commonly known as Coral Heath, is by taking semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is typically done in late summer when the plant's growth begins to harden but is not yet fully woody. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long and include several leaf nodes. It's important to remove the lower leaves, dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, and then insert the cutting into a well-draining propagation medium such as a mix of peat and coarse sand. The cuttings need to be kept in a warm, humid environment but out of direct sunlight until roots develop, which can take several weeks to a few months. Regular misting helps maintain adequate humidity levels during this time.
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