Correa alba

Common Name:
White Correa

Description:
Correa alba, commonly known as White Correa, is an evergreen shrub endemic to south-eastern Australia, including regions of South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. It typically grows to a height of 1.5 meters, forming a dense, rounded habit. The plant features leathery, grey-green leaves that are egg-shaped to nearly circular, with a dense covering of woolly hairs on the underside. From late autumn to winter, it produces small, star-shaped white flowers, occasionally pale pink, which are arranged singly or in clusters at the ends of short side branches. These blooms are complemented by rust-colored, woolly-hairy young stems. 

In Melbourne's climate, Correa alba thrives in well-drained soils and is tolerant of coastal conditions, including sandy soils and salty winds. It prefers a sunny position but will also grow in part shade, though flowering may be reduced. The shrub is drought and frost hardy once established, making it a resilient choice for various garden settings. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage denser growth, making it suitable for use as an informal hedge or in containers.

Form:

• Shrub - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 1.5 meters
• Width: 1.5 meters

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Autumn
• Flowers in Winter

Flower Colour:

• White
• Pale Pink (rarely)

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Australian Native
• Drought Resistant
• Frost Hardy
• Coastal Tolerant
• Attracts Birds
• Low Maintenance

Toxicity:

• No known toxicity to humans or animals.

Companion Plants:

• Banksia
• Grevillea
• Westringia
• Leptospermum

Note: Correa alba is an excellent choice for coastal gardens due to its tolerance of sandy soils and salty winds. Regular pruning after flowering can help maintain a compact shape and promote vigorous new growth.