Thryptomene Supernova
Thryptomene Supernova is a compact Australian native shrub grown for its masses of small white flowers. The blooms appear along arching stems from winter through spring, creating a soft, cloud-like effect. This thryptomene has a naturally rounded, bushy habit and reaches around 0.6 to 1m high and wide, making it an easy fit for smaller gardens.
Thryptomene Supernova suits a cottage garden, a native-style planting, or a modern minimalist border. Plant it in groups to create a soft textural mass, or use it as a low edging shrub along pathways and drives. It pairs well with grevilleas, hebes, and ornamental grasses for a relaxed, low-maintenance bed.
Grow this thryptomene in full sun to light shade. It prefers free-draining soil and copes well in sandy or gravelly ground. Avoid heavy, wet soils, which can stress the plant. Good airflow around the plant helps it stay healthy and flower reliably each year.
Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth. This thryptomene is not suited to frost-prone inland areas such as Central Otago or inland Southland without shelter. The toxicity of Thryptomene to cats, dogs, and other pets is not clearly established, so keep pets away from the plant as a precaution.
Trimming: Trim lightly after flowering in late spring to keep the plant compact and encourage a fresh flush of growth. Avoid cutting into old bare wood, as thryptomene can be slow to reshoot from hard pruning. A light shaping each year is all it needs.
Deadheading: Deadheading is not essential. The spent flowers are small and do not detract much from the plant. You can tidy them by hand if you prefer, but leaving them does no harm.
Fertilising: Feed in autumn or early spring with a low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser. Avoid standard garden fertilisers high in phosphorus, which can stress Australian natives. Feed sparingly, as this thryptomene does not need heavy nutrition.
Watering: Water regularly through the first summer to establish a strong root system. Once settled, this thryptomene is reasonably drought-tolerant and only needs watering during extended dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as the roots dislike sitting in wet soil.
Pest Control: Thryptomene is generally trouble-free. Watch for aphids and scale on new growth, and treat early with horticultural oil or a suitable spray if numbers build up.
Disease Management: Free-draining soil and good airflow are the best preventive measures. Wet or heavy soil increases the risk of Phytophthora root rot. Clear fallen leaves and spent material from around the base to reduce fungal risk.
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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
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