Philotheca myoporoides ‘Profusion’, commonly known as Wax Flower, is a compact Australian native shrub grown for its masses of soft white to pale pink flowers through winter and spring. This evergreen shrub has a naturally rounded, mound-forming habit that works beautifully in garden beds, native borders, pots and courtyard spaces. One of its standout features is the fresh apple-like fragrance released when the foliage is brushed or crushed. During the cooler months, ‘Profusion’ becomes covered in delicate starry flowers that attract bees, butterflies and beneficial pollinators into the garden. The flowering display can be surprisingly dense for such a compact shrub, making it a strong feature plant despite its smaller size. The fine green foliage remains attractive year-round, giving structure and colour even when not in bloom. This is a hardy, low maintenance native shrub that adapts well to a wide range of garden conditions. It performs well in full sun or light shade and suits coastal gardens, cottage-style planting, native gardens and poolside landscapes. Its tidy growth habit also makes it suitable for low informal hedging or mass planting. Philotheca ‘Profusion’ grows particularly well in containers and can be used to soften paved areas, patios and balconies where its fragrance can be appreciated up close. The flowers are also excellent for cutting and indoor arrangements. Care & Growing Tips Philotheca ‘Profusion’ grows best in a sunny to lightly shaded position with good air circulation. It prefers well-drained soil but adapts to sandy, loamy and even poorer soils provided drainage is reasonable. Water regularly while establishing. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant, though occasional deep watering during extended dry periods will help maintain healthy growth and flowering. Apply a low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser in spring if needed. Avoid overfeeding, especially in rich soils. Light pruning after flowering will help maintain a dense, tidy shape and encourage fresh growth for the following season’s flowers. Suitable for cool temperate through to Mediterranean climates and tolerates light frost once established. Ideal for – Feature planting – Native and pollinator-friendly gardens – Pots and container growing – Informal hedging and borders – Courtyards and smaller garden spaces – Cut flower gardens
