Common Name: Pinnate Boronia

General Information

Boronia pinnata is an evergreen shrub growing 50 - 150cm tall[].
The plant yields an essential oil that is used in perfumery. A very ornamental plant, it is grown in gardens and makes a very long-lasting cut flower[]..

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

Australia - New South Wales

Habitat

Mountain ranges[]. Dry sclerophyll forest and heath on sandstone, chiefly in coastal districts[, ].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	2.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Boronia pinnata is found in the warm temperate to subtropical zones of eastern Australia. It can tolerate short-lived temperatures down to at least -7°c in Australian gardens[], though would be less tolerant of cold in moister climates. It should succeed outdoors in climates such as the Mediterranean.
Requires a rich well-drained lime-free sandy soil in a sunny sheltered position[]. One form of this species is resistant to salt spray[].
Plants can flower in their first year from seed if they are pot grown and the young shoot tips are pinched out constantly[].
The leaves contain aromatic oils and produce a very strong aroma when crushed[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

An essential oil is obtained from the flowers and the leaves[, ]. Used in perfumery[].

Propagation

Seed - surface sow in a greenhouse at 15°c[, ]. Do not allow the compost to dry out. Germination usually takes place within 4 - 9 weeks at 24°c[]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of half-ripe shoot tips or side shoots, 5 - 10cm preferably with a heel, mid summer in a frame[].