Boronia Carousel
Boronia Carousel is a compact flowering shrub grown for its dark pink blooms, which deepen to rich red as they age. The flowers appear in late winter to spring, covering the plant in a two-tone display that shifts colour as the season progresses. Aromatic foliage adds a further point of interest, as boronia leaves release a pleasant scent when brushed. Mature plants typically reach around 0.6 to 1m high and wide.
This boronia suits a cottage garden, a native-style planting, or an informal mixed border. Use it near paths or seating where the fragrance can be appreciated. It works well massed for a full flush of colour, or planted alongside other boronias and small Australian natives for a layered, low-water bed.
Grow Boronia Carousel in a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, or light dappled shade through the day. It needs free-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic content. Avoid heavy or waterlogged ground, which quickly damages the roots. A light mulch helps keep the root zone cool and moist.
Boronia Carousel is frost-tender and is not suited to frost-prone inland areas such as Central Otago or inland Southland without shelter. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape. The toxicity of boronia to pets is not clearly established, so keep the plant out of reach of cats and dogs as a precaution.
Trimming: Trim lightly straight after flowering in spring, cutting back by about one third to keep the plant compact and encourage fresh growth. Avoid cutting into old bare wood, as boronia is slow to reshoot from hard cuts. Remove any dead or damaged stems at the same time.
Deadheading: Deadheading is not essential. Removing spent flowers by hand tidies the plant after the main flush, but leaving them does no harm to overall health.
Fertilising: Feed in late winter just before flowering begins, using a fertiliser suited to natives or acid-loving plants. Keep rates light, as boronia roots are sensitive to overfeeding. A light mulch of compost around the base in autumn also supports steady growth.
Watering: Water regularly through the first season to establish a strong root system. Once settled, water during dry spells, keeping the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Boronia dislikes both drought and sitting in wet ground.
Pest Control: Check plants for aphids, thrips, and scale, particularly on new growth and under leaves. Treat early with a suitable spray or horticultural oil to prevent populations from building up.
Disease Management: Free-draining soil and good airflow are the main defences against disease. Wet or heavy soil invites Phytophthora root rot, which is the most common cause of boronia decline. Clear fallen leaves and spent flowers to reduce fungal risk.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
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