The Story
Plant Bio
Pimelea ferruginea is a compact, densely branched evergreen shrub native to the coastal areas of Western Australia. It features small, glossy, deep green leaves arranged in four tightly packed ranks along the stems, topped by dense, hemispherical pink flower clusters from spring through summer.
The species is highly adapted to coastal conditions, demonstrating excellent tolerance to salt spray and sandy soils. Its distinctive leaf arrangement and neat, rounded habit make it a highly structured addition to mild-climate gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
39"
Width
79"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Low to Medium
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Short-lived shrub
Native To
Western Australia
Toxicity
Toxic to livestock
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 6 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with sandy, rocky, or exceptionally well-draining soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the crown sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent water pooling.
- Water moderately during the establishment phase, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Apply a light layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stem to avoid rot.
Pro Tip
Never cut back into old, leafless wood, as it lacks latent buds and will experience severe dieback; instead, lightly trim immediately after flowering to maintain a dense shape.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Plant in sandy or rocky soils with exemplary drainage.
- Trim lightly immediately after the spring bloom flush.
- Protect from hard frosts below 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Don't
- Do not plant in heavy clay or poorly draining soils.
- Do not prune hard into old, brown, leafless wood.
- Do not apply heavy or high-phosphorus synthetic fertilizers.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pink Rice Flower questions
What zones can Pink Rice Flower grow in?
Pink Rice Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Pink Rice Flower bloom?
Pink Rice Flower typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pink Rice Flower need full sun?
Pink Rice Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pink Rice Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pink Rice Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Pink Rice Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.