From our perspective, the primary concern is space. Our root systems, while generally not as aggressively invasive as some species, still require adequate room to develop and access water and nutrients. A container that is too small will lead to root-binding, where our roots circle the pot, eventually choking ourselves and stunting growth. We require a pot with a minimum diameter of 40-50cm (16-20 inches) and excellent drainage holes. A larger container provides a more stable root environment, buffering against rapid temperature and moisture fluctuations. The material is also important; terracotta breathes better than plastic, helping to prevent waterlogged conditions that are fatal to us.
This is non-negotiable. We are plants that have evolved in well-drained, often sandy or rocky soils. Our roots are highly susceptible to root rot fungi (like Phytophthora) that thrive in wet, stagnant conditions. A quality potting mix is our lifeline. It must be extremely free-draining, typically a native plant mix or a blend you can create yourself using a standard potting soil amended generously with coarse sand, perlite, and gravel. This ensures that water flows through quickly, providing moisture without saturation, and allows oxygen to reach our roots, which is vital for our health.
We are sun-worshippers. To thrive and produce our spectacular blooms, we demand a full sun position, meaning a minimum of six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily. A sheltered spot that protects us from harsh, persistent winds is also beneficial, as strong winds can quickly desiccate our foliage and dry out the limited soil in the container. The angle of the sun changes with the seasons, so observe the placement to ensure we are not shaded out by structures or other plants as the year progresses. Our container life makes us mobile, so take advantage of this to find us the perfect sunny aspect.
Our nutritional needs are specific. We are adapted to low-phosphorus soils, and many standard fertilizers contain levels of phosphorus that are toxic to us, damaging our roots and preventing nutrient uptake. You must feed us only with a fertilizer formulated specifically for native plants, which is low in phosphorus. Apply it sparingly, typically in late winter and again after our main flowering flush. Watering requires a careful balance. While we are drought-tolerant once established in the ground, our container confines mean we rely on you for water. The goal is to let the top few centimeters of soil dry out between waterings, then provide a deep, thorough soak until water runs freely from the drainage holes. Avoid frequent, light sprinklings.
Regular, gentle pruning after flowering is beneficial for us. It encourages a bushier, more compact growth habit, which is ideal for container life, and promotes more prolific flowering in the next season. Avoid cutting back into old, bare wood, as we often do not reshoot from these areas. Eventually, we will exhaust the nutrients in the potting mix and our roots will fill the container. Repotting us into a slightly larger pot with fresh native plant potting mix every 2-3 years will rejuvenate us and sustain our health and growth long-term.
