Adenandra uniflora

A compact, bushy evergreen shrub that grows up to 50cm tall and 70cm wide.

A profusion of single white flowers with pink stripes are produced in spring. The small, light-green leaves are smooth and aromatic.

Adenandra uniflora grows best when planted in full sun and needs adequate water during the hot summer months. It requires soil that is well-drained, composted and enriched with a well-balanced fertiliser. the plant is slow-growing and needs space in the garden bed to allow it to develop to its full potential.

Like other fynbos plants, planting Adenandra uniflora in your garden is best done after the first winter rains. Always choose healthy, well-grown plants. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, peat, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Before planting, ensure that the root-ball is saturated and remove the planter bag with as little root disturbance as possible. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Tall plants and those in windy positions require staking to stabilize the root ball until established. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing. Tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind, encouraging development of a strong root system without risk of chafing or root damage. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Long-term, slow-release fertilisers can be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole, tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root-ball. Unless the soil is very wet, water thoroughly, making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root ball.

Annually mulch with well-rotted compost to reduce weeds and reduce soil temperature. The root ball may dry out despite the surrounding soil being moist; when this occurs, directly water down the plant stem to saturate the roots. The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants, so make sure to water thoroughly during dry periods.

Check regularly for pests and diseases, as they can have debilitating effects on young plants.

Check stakes and ties for stem chafing and constriction. Remove as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage. Except on very fertile soils, a spring application (50g/m2) of general-purpose fertiliser is beneficial. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil, taking care not to damage surface roots. Most plants require some pruning to develop the desired shape and to keep them compact. Prune after flowering to promote growth of next season's flowering stems.

Plant China flower with companion plants, such as restios, pelargoniums, Helichrysum, Phylica Euryops, Felicia and Leonotis.

African Garden