How to Grow Geraldton Wax

Geraldton Wax (Chamelaucium uncinatum) is an attractive Western Australian shrub or small tree. It is a favourite in native gardens, with its needle-like leaves and waxy pink or red flowers that appear from later Winter to Spring.

Full sun to part shade

Water well after planting. Requires little water once established

Well drained

Best grown in temperate climates

How to grow geraldton wax in a garden

Step 1

Choose a place in the garden that gets full sun to part shade. Prepare the planting area well by digging in Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 2

Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.

Step 3

Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down. Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.

Step 4

Mulch around the base with organic mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Step 5

Feed occasionally with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser to ensure strong root development.

How to grow geraldton wax in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot that is at least twice the size of the selected plant. Position in the garden that receives full sun to part shade.

Step 2

Fill the pot with a quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Carefully remove the plant from the pot ensuring not to disturb any of the roots. TIP: You can use scissors to remove the plant from the pot but take care when using this method.

Step 4

Position in hole and backfill with potting mix, gently firming down. Water in well.

Step 5

Mulch around the base with organic mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Step 6

Feed occasionally with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser to ensure strong root development.

Growing tips

Take care when removing the plant from the pot as they don't like their roots to be disturbed when planting.
Geraldton wax don't perform well in humid summer environments and these conditions may limit the plants lifespan.
Lightly prune after flowering.
Great as a cut flower.
Dislikes wet feet. Always ensure that the soil is not wet for long periods of time.
Can also be used as an alternate Christmas Tree.
Great plant for attracting bees to the garden.