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How to Grow Emu Bush

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Emu Bush

Eremophila glabra

shrub

Emu Bush is a hardy, drought-tolerant Australian native shrub with glossy green foliage and vibrant tubular flowers that attract birds and insects. The purple form produces stunning violet to deep purple blooms along the stems. It's a low-maintenance ornamental suitable for xeriscaping and Mediterranean-style gardens.

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Example Emu Bush timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Emu Bush

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Emu Bush

    Late summer into fall

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Emu Bush dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Full sun, 8+ hours daily
💧
Water: Low water needs once established; drought-tolerant. Water moderately during establishment (6-12 months). Reduce watering significantly in mature plants; overwatering causes root rot.
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Spacing: 36 inches
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Days to maturity:
🌱
Planting depth: Same depth as root ball; plant in spring or fall

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gravelly soil
pH: 6.5-8.0
Amendments:
Coarse sand Gravel or perlite for drainage Minimal organic matter

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 9-11; tolerates brief freezes to 20°F (-6°C)

9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

6-12 months

Young plant with compact growth and emerging shoots; root system developing

Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings. Protect from extreme heat initially. Apply mulch around base, keeping it away from stem.

2

Vegetative Growth

1-2 years

Shrub develops dense, bushy form with glossy green linear leaves arranged alternately

Light pruning to shape after flowering. Minimal fertilizer needed; avoid nitrogen-rich feeds. Gradually reduce watering frequency.

3

Flowering

4-6 months (spring-early summer in cool climates; winter-spring in warm climates)

Tubular purple flowers emerge along stems in clusters; peak bloom in spring and summer

Flowers attract honeyeaters and other birds. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Do not fertilize during flowering.

4

Dormancy/Mature

Ongoing

Established shrub maintains compact form year-round; minimal growth in winter or dry season

Rely on rainfall once fully established. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape. Remove any frost-damaged or dead wood.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Grevillea Westringia Rosemary Lavender Salvia Desert rose Ornamental grasses

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring frequent watering (hydrangea, ferns, hostas) Shade-loving understorey plants Heavy feeders in poor soils

Common Pests

  • Inspect stems regularly; remove by hand or spray with neem oil in early stages. Improve air circulation through pruning.

  • Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.

  • Ensure excellent drainage; never overwater. Remove affected plants if root rot is advanced. Sterilize tools before pruning.

Uses

🦋

Bird and Pollinator Attraction

Wildlife

The tubular purple flowers are a prime nectar source for honeyeaters, lorikeets, and other Australian birds, as well as insects and native bees. Provides reliable food during flowering seasons. [source]

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Ornamental Landscaping

Household

Perfect for xeriscaping, Mediterranean gardens, and water-wise landscapes. Provides year-round foliage interest and seasonal floral displays with minimal maintenance. [source]

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Drought-Tolerant Screening

Household

Can be used as a dense screening shrub in arid and semi-arid climates. Tolerates poor soils, wind, and heat stress that would damage traditional ornamentals. [source]

💊

Traditional Aboriginal Uses

Medicinal

Various Eremophila species have been used in traditional Aboriginal medicine, though scientific validation is limited. Modern herbalism explores potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Not a harvest plant. For ornamental enjoyment, enjoy flowers in situ or cut small sprigs for fresh arrangements during peak bloom.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 The common name 'Emu Bush' comes from emus eating the fruit and seeds in the wild Australian outback, dispersing them across the landscape.
  • 🌱 Eremophila glabra is endemic to inland Australia and has been cultivated by Aboriginal peoples for thousands of years before European contact.
  • 🌱 The purple form is a naturally occurring color variant; some wild populations produce yellow, orange, red, or pink flowers instead.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Deadhead Full Sun Mulch
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