How to Grow Emu Bush
Emu Bush
Eremophila longifolia
shrubEmu Bush is a hardy, drought-tolerant Australian native shrub known for its narrow, silvery-green foliage and tubular flowers that typically range from purple-blue to pink. It grows as a medium-sized, spreading shrub and is highly valued in xeriscaping and low-maintenance garden designs. This plant thrives in hot, dry conditions and poor soils where many other plants struggle.
When should you plant Emu Bush in your zone?
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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)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Emu Bush dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; tolerates zone 8b with winter protection
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Get my Emu Bush timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-8 weeksYoung plants develop narrow leaves and delicate stems. Growth is initially slow.
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering. Provide bright light. Keep soil barely moist.
Establishment
3-6 monthsPlant develops stronger root system and more robust foliage; may reach 12-18 inches in first year.
Water moderately but infrequently. Allow to dry out between waterings. Begin applying light NPK fertilizer if desired.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsShrub grows taller and wider, developing its characteristic spreading habit; silvery foliage becomes more prominent.
Minimal fertilizer needed. Prune to shape if desired. Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases.
Flowering
6-8 weeks, may repeat if conditions favorableTubular flowers in shades of purple-blue, pink, or occasionally yellow emerge along stems.
Peak flowering in spring and early summer. Ensure full sun exposure. Light pruning after flowering encourages bushier form.
Maturity
Ongoing; shrub persists for many yearsFully established shrub (3-5 feet tall and wide depending on variety) with dense foliage and regular flowering.
Minimal maintenance required. Water only during extended dry periods. Prune lightly for shape if needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; remove with soft brush or spray with horticultural oil in early morning or late afternoon
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Prevent through excellent drainage and avoiding overwatering; remove affected plants; improve soil drainage with sand and gravel
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Improve air circulation; reduce leaf wetness; apply sulfur-based fungicide if needed; ensure full sun
Uses
Drought-tolerant landscape design
HouseholdEremophila longifolia is an excellent choice for xeriscaping, water-wise gardens, and low-maintenance landscaping in arid and semi-arid regions. Its attractive silvery foliage and colorful flowers add visual interest while requiring minimal irrigation once established. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe tubular flowers attract native bees, honeyeaters, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife gardens in Australia and Mediterranean climates. It provides nectar during spring and early summer months. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
CraftLong-stemmed shoots with tubular flowers are suitable for fresh flower arrangements and can be cut for 2-3 weeks of vase life. The distinctive form adds unique texture to bouquets. [source]
Container gardening
HouseholdEremophila longifolia adapts well to container growing in well-draining potting mixes, making it suitable for patios, balconies, and Mediterranean-style displays in cooler climates. [source]
Erosion control and slope stabilization
HouseholdIts spreading growth habit and deep root system make it useful for stabilizing slopes and preventing erosion in arid landscapes while requiring minimal maintenance. [source]
Harvest Tips
Emu Bush is not harvested for food. For ornamental purposes, deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Cut stems for floral arrangements in spring or early summer when flowers are open.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Emu Bush' comes from the fact that native Australian emus fed on its foliage and flowers in the wild, particularly during drought periods.
- 🌱 Eremophila longifolia is endemic to inland Australia and has evolved remarkable adaptations to survive extreme heat and water scarcity, including its narrow leaves that reduce water loss through transpiration.
- 🌱 Despite its Australian origin, this species performs exceptionally well in Mediterranean climates and has become popular in Spain, Italy, and California where it thrives in similar hot, dry conditions.
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