How to Grow Correa
Correa reflexa
Correa is a winter-flowering Australian native shrub with distinctive bell-shaped flowers in red, pink, or green that attract nectar-feeding birds. Plant in well-drained soil in dappled shade to part sun. Very drought-tolerant once established. Use low-phosphorus fertiliser only. Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape. Ideal for shaded areas, woodland gardens, and providing winter colour.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Once in spring with a low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser. Correas are sensitive to excess phosphorus.
Watch For
- Root rot in heavy or waterlogged soils
- Scale insects on stems
- Phytophthora in humid conditions
Care Requirements
Light
Dappled shade to part sun
Prefers dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade. Tolerates more sun in cool climates. Hot afternoon sun can stress the plant.
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established
Water regularly during the first year. Once established, very drought-tolerant and needs supplementary watering only in extreme heat. Avoid waterlogging at all times.
Fertilizing
Low-phosphorus feed once in spring
Apply a low-phosphorus native plant fertiliser once in spring. Correas are sensitive to excess phosphorus which causes leaf burn and decline. Never use standard garden fertilisers.
Pruning
Light tip-prune after flowering
Lightly tip-prune after flowering finishes in spring to keep a compact, bushy shape. Avoid cutting into old bare wood as it will not regrow.
