Geraldton Waxflower

Chamelaucium uncinatum

Location: In the gardens behind the 7th and 17th greens.

This erect shrub may grow to 3 metres, but has a tendency to fall over in strong winds. It bears pink and white flowers in Winter and Spring. There are 30 species and a number of hybrid cultivars with red to purple colours. The flowers resemble those of the tea tree.

Geraldton wax flower is native to Western Australia and cultivated throughout Australia. It is best grown in full sunlight in open well drained sandy soils. It is drought tolerant. The scientific name is derived from Greek and Latin. “Chamai” means dwarf, and “leucos” means white in Greek. “Uncinatum” means hook in Latin and refers to the leaf tips.

Geraldton wax flower is used extensively in the cut flower industry. When cut, the blooms will last for well over a week. It may be propagated with difficulty from seed and is more easily grown from cuttings or the current seasons growth.

“Trees are the best monuments that a man can erect to his own memory. They speak his praises without flattery, and they are blessings to children yet unborn.” (Lord Orrery)