How to Grow Emu Bush
iNaturalist
Emu Bush
Eremophila glabra
shrubEremophila glabra, commonly called Emu Bush, is a hardy Australian native shrub prized for its showy, tubular flowers that attract native birds and pollinators. It features fine, narrow foliage and produces vibrant blooms in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, or purple depending on the cultivar. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in dry, well-drained conditions and is ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
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Example Emu Bush timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Emu Bush
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Emu Bush
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11, tolerates brief frosts in zone 9a with protection
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Get my Emu Bush timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant establishing root system; sparse foliage
Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings. Protect from harsh winds. Do not fertilize during first year; poor soil conditions promote vigor.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsExpanding foliage and branch development with fine, narrow leaves becoming more prominent
Reduce watering frequency as plant matures. Light pruning to shape can be done after flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which promote soft growth.
Flowering
4-8 months, often winter to spring, can be nearly continuous in mild climatesProduces abundant tubular flowers clustered along branches; colors range from red to orange, yellow, pink, or purple depending on variety
Maintain dry conditions; water only if extreme drought threatens. Deadheading spent flowers encourages extended blooming. No feeding required.
Mature Plant
Ongoing; mature shrubs can live 15+ yearsFully developed shrub with dense branching, fine foliage, and regular flowering cycles
Minimal maintenance required. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Winter dormancy and reduced growth is normal; do not water heavily.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe. Ensure adequate air circulation.
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation is heavy.
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Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil during dormant season or spray with systemic insecticide.
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Improve drainage immediately; avoid overwatering. No chemical cure; prevention through proper drainage is critical.
Uses
Native Bird Attraction
WildlifeThe tubular flowers are highly attractive to native Australian birds, particularly honeyeaters and lorikeets, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. Provides nectar sources throughout flowering season. [source]
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
HouseholdIdeal for xeriscaping and water-wise garden design in arid and semi-arid climates. Reduces irrigation demand and maintenance compared to conventional ornamental shrubs. [source]
Ornamental Garden Feature
CraftUsed as specimen plants, informal hedging, or massed planting for color. Fine foliage and showy flowers provide year-round visual interest in warm climates. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal Use
MedicinalAustralian Aboriginal peoples traditionally used various Eremophila species for medicinal purposes, though modern medicinal applications are limited and not scientifically validated. [source]
Floral Garnish
CulinaryBright tubular flowers can be used as edible garnish for beverages and desserts, adding visual appeal and a delicate, slightly sweet quality to culinary presentations. [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 typically harvested; grown as ornamental for flowers and foliage. Seeds can be collected from spent flower heads once dried; propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Emu Bush' derives from the fact that emus in Australia eat the fruit of these plants and disperse the seeds through their droppings.
- 🌱 Eremophila species were used by Aboriginal Australians for thousands of years before European contact and feature prominently in traditional bush medicine practices.
- 🌱 The genus Eremophila contains over 200 species native exclusively to Australia, with Eremophila glabra being one of the most ornamental and widely cultivated worldwide.
Gardening Terms
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