Astartea fascicularis

Common Names: false baeckea

Family: Myrtaceae

Origin: Australia

Type: Evergreen shrub

Size: To 3 ft. high and wide.

Flowers: Small white star-shaped flowers with deep pink centers in sprays, throughout year, especially winter; tiny scented green leaves on spreading stems.

Uses: Groundcover, rock garden, cut flowers.

Wildlife: (None found.)

Soil: Well-drained lime-free.

Water: None needed; bloom time extended with some.

Sun: Full sun to some shade.

Pruning: Prune to control shape--compact or spreading.

Pests & Diseases: (None found.)

Notes: Varieties are common and usually grow lower than main species. Astartea comes from Astarte, the Phoenicean goddess; fascicularis mean bundles, like the leaves. Hardy to 25° F.