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Do you ever imagine what it would be like to have a truly unique plant such as Correa in your area? If you live in Australia, that dream can quickly become a reality with the Canberra bell (Correa).
It’s fascinating how such a small, unassuming plant can have such a significant and exciting backstory – Canberra bells are native to the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).,
What is Correa?
Correa is a genus of about 30 species of shrubs in the family Rutaceae, native to Australia. The Canberra bell (Correa alba) is the most commonly grown species. Correas are evergreen plants with leathery leaves and tubular flowers in shades of red, pink or white. They flower from autumn to spring and are popular garden plants in temperate regions.
Canberra bells are named after the Australian capital Canberra, where they are widespread. They are also known as native fuchsias or alpine fuchsias.
Benefits of Growing Correa
Correa plants, also known as Canberra bells, are a type of native shrub that is indigenous to Australia. These beautiful plants are not only easy to care for, but they also offer a range of benefits for gardens and landscapes.
One of the key benefits of growing Correa is that they are low-maintenance plants. Once established, they require very little care and can even tolerate long periods of drought. Canberra bells are also relatively fast-growing plants, so they can quickly fill in gaps in your garden.
How to Grow Correa
Correa, or Canberra bells, are a type of native plant that is found in Australia. The name “Correa” comes from the Latin word for “heart,” which is fitting given the shape of the flowers. These plants are drought-tolerant and can grow in various soil types.
Canberra bells can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
- If you’re Propagating from seed, sow the seeds in a sunny spot in spring.
- If you’re propagating from cuttings, take stem cuttings from an existing plant in late spring or early summer.
- Water your Canberra bells regularly, especially during the hotter months.
- Once established, they are quite drought tolerant. Apply a slow-release native fertiliser to your plants in spring.
Plant Size
The Canberra bell is an evergreen shrub that grows between 1 and 3 metres in height and has small, oval-shaped leaves.
It would take approximately 10-12 years for the Canberra bell to reach its full size. You will notice that the young Canberra bell shrubs have reddish-brown leaves, gradually turning green as they mature.
When To Plant Correa
The best time to plant Correa is in the spring or autumn. Spring is ideal as the weather is cool and there is more rainfall.
This means the plant will have enough water to get established before the hot summer months. Autumn is also an excellent time to plant as the weather is cooler and there is less chance of drought.
Soil Preparation
Its soil should be well-drained, fertile and humus-rich. You can improve your soil by adding organic matter like compost or manure before planting.
Correas grow best in a sunny spot but will also tolerate some light shade, especially in hot summer areas. A slow-release native fertiliser applied once a year is all that is required. Or you could use a good quality general-purpose fertiliser like Dynamic Lifter.
How To Plant Correa
- First, Canberra Bells need full sun to produce the most flowers. They will tolerate some shade but won’t bloom as profusely.
- Second, they like well-drained soil and won’t do well if their roots are waterlogged. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter before planting.
- When you’re ready to plant, dig a hole that’s twice the width of the pot your Canberra Bell is in.
- Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any tightly wound roots.
- Place it in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Fill in around the root ball with amended soil, tamping it gently as you go to remove any air pockets.
- Water deeply immediately after planting.
Correa Plant Care
Canberra bells are generally very hardy and easy to care for. However, they may require occasional pruning to keep them tidy and under control. If you are interested in growing Correa plants, you should keep a few things in mind.
- First, you will need to choose a location that receives full sun. These plants do not do well in the shade.
- Second, make sure you plant your Canberra bells in well-drained soil. These plants do not like having wet feet and will quickly succumb to root rot if the soil is too moist.
- Finally, water your Canberra bells regularly during the growing season. They will appreciate a deep watering about once a week during the summer months.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Correa
Is Correa native to Australia?
No, Correa is not native to Australia. It is, however, endemic to the area. This means that it is found naturally only in Australia and nowhere else.
Is Correa a perennial?
Yes, it is a perennial. They typically grow 8-12″ tall and have clusters of dark blue, tubular flowers in late spring to midsummer.
They like full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant but look best with regular watering. The flowers are long-lasting and make good-cut flowers. Correa can be grown from seed or by dividing the clumps.
How do you propagate Correa?
There are a few ways to propagate Correa. One way is to divide the plants in the spring, just before new growth begins. Another way is to take stem cuttings from further development in the summer. You can also root softwood cuttings taken from the current season’s growth, but they will need to be kept in warm conditions until they root.
Are fuchsias native to Australia?
Yes, fuchsias are native to Australia. They’re one of the country’s most iconic plants and can be found in gardens and parks all over the country.
Fuchsias are prized for their vibrant flowers, which come in various colours, including pink, red, purple, and white. They grow best in temperate climates with plenty of rainfall and can reach heights of up to 3 meters (10 feet).
How do you grow Correa?
Correa grows best in moist, well-drained soils in full sun. They can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer, early autumn, or seed.
Correa can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the current season’s growth. Cut a 6-8 inch long piece of stem with at least two leaves attached. Remove the leaves and make a diagonal cut across the bottom of the cutting. Dip the cutting into a rooting hormone powder and place it into a rooting medium consisting of equal parts peat moss and sand. Keep the cutting moist and put it in direct sunlight.
Can you prune Correa?
Yes, you can prune Correa. It’s recommended to do so in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and then thin out the plant by cutting back some of the live components. Make sure to use clean and sharp pruning shears to make a clean cut; if you use dull shears, you may damage the branch even more.
