How to Grow Breath of Heaven
Coleonema pulchellum
Breath of Heaven thrives in full sun with excellent drainage — it will not tolerate waterlogged roots. Plant in free-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil and water moderately; once established it is drought-tolerant. Trim lightly after the main spring flush, never cutting into old wood. Feed sparingly in spring only. In colder gardens (below -5°C), shelter from frost or grow in a container you can bring indoors.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Avoid rich feeds — excess nitrogen promotes leafy growth at the expense of flowers. No feeding in winter.
Watch For
- Root rot in waterlogged soil
- Scale insects on stems
- Spider mites in hot dry conditions
- Frost damage to shoot tips
Companions
Lavender, Rosemary, Cistus, Agapanthus
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun, at least 6 hours daily
Requires full sun for best flowering. Partial shade reduces bloom density significantly. A south or west-facing position is ideal in temperate climates.
Watering
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Water regularly when young. Once established, water moderately and allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid overwatering — root rot in wet soil is the main killer. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing
Light spring feed only
A light application of balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring is sufficient. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which promote foliage over flowers. Do not feed in summer, autumn, or winter.
Pruning
Light trim after flowering; never cut old wood
Trim lightly immediately after the main spring flowering. Remove spent shoots and shape to keep compact. Never cut back hard into old, leafless wood — Coleonema does not regenerate from bare stems.
