Coleonema Pulchrum 'Aurea'

Golden Diosma / Golden Breath of Heaven / Golden Confetti Bush

Botanical Name: Coleonema pulchrum 'Aurea'
Family: Rutaceae
Origin: South Africa (Cape region)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

Coleonema ‘Aurea’ is prized for its golden, aromatic foliage that holds colour year-round and intensifies in full sun. Clouds of pale pink, starry flowers appear from late winter into spring, drawing pollinators. A neat, low-maintenance shrub for hedges, borders and coastal gardens.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 1-1.5 m H x 1-1.2 m W
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Fine, golden to chartreuse; may take on bronze tints in cold winters; fragrant when brushed
• Flowers: Masses of pale pink stars, late winter–spring
• Seasonal Interest: Year-round colour; peak bloom late winter–spring
• Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and other beneficial insects
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, second-line coastal-tolerant; light frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: Hedge: ~1 plant per metre for dense coverage (0.6–0.8 m for a very tight hedge); borders: 1 per 1–1.5 m
• Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic; any plant ingestion may upset pets

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to light part shade (best gold in full sun)
• Soil: Well-drained sandy or loamy soils; avoid waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Light tip-prune after flowering to keep compact; mulch in spring; feed lightly in early spring
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Best in neutral to slightly acidic; tolerates slightly alkaline if free-draining

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Low golden hedge or border for year-round colour
• Mass plant for luminous mounds along paths and driveways
• Feature near entries or in coastal gardens; great contrast with purple or blue-flowering plants

Why You Will Love It

A bright, gold-foliage shrub that’s tidy, tough and fragrant—giving four-season colour, spring flowers for pollinators, and excellent performance in coastal, sunny sites with minimal fuss.