How to Grow Westringia 'Sunshine'
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Westringia 'Sunshine'
Westringia fruticosa 'Sunshine'
shrubWestringia 'Sunshine' is a compact, variegated evergreen shrub native to Australia, featuring bright golden-yellow foliage with green margins. It produces delicate purple or mauve flowers and aromatic, needle-like leaves. This ornamental shrub is prized for its color, texture, and low-maintenance growth habit.
When should you plant Westringia 'Sunshine' in your zone?
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Example Westringia 'Sunshine' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Westringia 'Sunshine'
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 Westringia 'Sunshine'
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Westringia 'Sunshine' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; excellent for Mediterranean and warm temperate climates
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Get my Westringia 'Sunshine' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-6 weeksYoung transplant with small golden-variegated foliage, establishing root system
Water regularly for first 4-6 weeks; provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; avoid fertilizer initially
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsCompact shrub expanding in height and width, foliage becomes denser and more vibrant
Light pruning to encourage bushiness; minimal fertilizer needed; maintain consistent watering schedule
Flowering
6-9 months (spring to fall)Small purple-mauve flowers appear along stems among the golden foliage, creating visual contrast
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms; flowers appear spring through summer, sometimes into fall
Mature
Ongoing (perennial)Fully established shrub reaching 2-3 feet in height and width with dense, colorful foliage and regular flowering
Minimal maintenance; annual light pruning in late winter to maintain shape; very drought-tolerant once established
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe; encourage beneficial insects
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Hand-remove or scrape off; spray with horticultural oil in late winter/early spring
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Increase humidity with occasional misting; spray with water; neem oil if population is large
Uses
Colorful Landscape Accent
OrnamentalWestringia 'Sunshine' is a striking golden-variegated accent plant for gardens, borders, and containers. Its bright foliage provides year-round color and visual interest in Mediterranean, xeriscaping, and contemporary garden designs. [source]
Low-Maintenance Container Plant
HouseholdIts compact, slow-growing habit and drought tolerance make it ideal for pots, planters, and raised beds. Perfect for patios, balconies, and small gardens where space is limited. [source]
Aromatic Herb (Ornamental)
CulinaryWhile primarily ornamental, Westringia leaves have a pleasant rosemary-like fragrance and are occasionally used as a culinary herb in Australia. The aromatic foliage can be lightly brushed to release fragrance. [source]
Pollinator Attractor
WildlifeThe delicate purple flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local wildlife. It provides nectar for butterflies and beneficial insects, particularly during spring and summer. [source]
Drought-Resistant Landscaping
HouseholdIdeal for water-wise gardens and xeriscaping projects in warm climates. Requires minimal irrigation once established, reducing water consumption and maintenance needs. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested. For ornamental use, prune stems in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and encourage branching. Remove dead or crossing branches. Light deadheading of flowers extends blooming period.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Westringia 'Sunshine' is native to Australia and belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae), which explains its aromatic foliage similar to rosemary.
- 🌱 The 'Sunshine' cultivar was selected for its superior golden variegation, which intensifies in full sun and can fade somewhat in shade.
- 🌱 Its common name in some regions is 'Australian Rosemary,' though it is not actually a rosemary and is unrelated to culinary rosemary despite their similar appearance.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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