Thryptomene Saxicola 'Supernova'

Thryptomene ‘Supernova’ / Rock Thryptomene

Botanical Name: Thryptomene saxicola ‘Supernova’
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Western Australia
Plant Type: Evergreen native shrub

Overview

Thryptomene saxicola ‘Supernova’ is a compact, profusely flowering form of the beloved Australian native Thryptomene. Renowned for its masses of soft pink blooms that cover the plant from late winter into spring, ‘Supernova’ is both elegant and tough — ideal for Adelaide’s dry, coastal, and Mediterranean climate. It handles heat, wind, and poor soils with ease, while its fine foliage, neat habit, and delicate perfume make it a stunning choice for low borders, native gardens, and containers.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.5–0.8 m H × 0.6–1.0 m W (compact, mounded shrub)
• Growth Rate: 20-35 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Fine, aromatic grey-green needle-like leaves; foliage may develop bronze or silvery tints in cool or dry weather
• Flowers: Dainty soft pink, five-petalled blooms along stems; flowering from late winter to mid-spring (July–October), with lighter flushes possible into early summer
  
• Seasonal Interest: Long seasonal flower display and attractive year-round evergreen foliage
• Wildlife Value: Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, coastal-tolerant (front-line); light frost (protect from hard frost)
• Planting Density: 1–2 plants per m² or 0.6–0.8 m apart for informal drifts
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs (ingesting large amounts of foliage may cause mild tummy upset

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun for best flowering; tolerates light or dappled shade
• Soil: Prefers free-draining sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils; tolerates limestone and slightly alkaline soils common in SA gardens
• 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: Tip prune after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage next season’s growth; Avoid cutting into old wood; Use a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in spring if desired
• Lifespan: 10–15+ years in suitable conditions
• Climate Zones: Ideal for temperate, coastal, and Mediterranean South Australia — performs strongly in Adelaide Hills, plains, and coastal sites
• Soil pH: Neutral to alkaline, tolerates slightly acidic soils if drainage is excellent

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Native & Cottage Gardens: Combine with Grevillea, Chrysocephalum, and Correa for a continuous flowering mix with texture contrast
• Coastal Gardens: Tough enough for salt-laden winds and sandy soils near Adelaide’s coastal suburbs
• Courtyard & Alfresco Pots: Compact growth suits containers and small gardens — excellent near outdoor seating areas for fragrance and fine texture
• Mass Planting & Borders: Plant in low drifts for a soft, pink flowering edge through late winter and spring
• Rockery & Slopes: Perfect for rock gardens, gravel beds, and retaining walls, softening hard edges with arching sprays of bloom

Why You Will Love It

A modern, improved Thryptomene bred for dense form and heavy flowering, ‘Supernova’ thrives in Adelaide’s dry, sunny climate. Its fine, aromatic foliage, long pink bloom season, and easy-care nature make it a top choice for waterwise gardens and small landscapes alike.