shrub

Common Correa

The Story

Plant Bio

Correa reflexa, the common correa, is an evergreen Australian shrub with variable growth habits ranging from prostrate groundcovers to upright, twiggy forms. The opposite leaves often feature a downy, rust-colored underside, while the pendulous, bell-shaped flowers display colors from greenish-yellow to deep crimson.

This species is highly adaptable to coastal conditions, tolerating salt-laden winds and sandy soils. The tubular flowers bloom continuously from late fall through spring, providing a critical nectar source during the colder months.

Uses & Benefits:

Offers highly variable, pendulous bell-shaped flowers in shades of red, pink, or green from late fall through spring.

Highly tolerant of salt spray and coastal winds, making it excellent for erosion control on coastal slopes.

Provides a vital winter nectar source for native hummingbirds and beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

79"

Width

118"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9, 10

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Low to moderate

Lifespan

Multi-year

Native To

Australia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late fall – Late spring

In flower about 7 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with excellent drainage, such as a sandy loam, rocky slope, or raised bed.
Position the plant in full sun or partial shade, preferably where it receives morning sun and afternoon protection in hot climates.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil.
Water deeply to settle the soil, then apply a light layer of organic mulch, keeping it clear of the main stem.

Pro Tip

Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain a dense, bushy habit; cutting back into old, leafless wood prevents regeneration and can kill the branch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune lightly immediately after flowering to encourage dense, bushy growth.
Ensure the soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Use a low-phosphorus, slow-release fertilizer sparingly in spring if growth is sluggish.

Don't

Do not prune hard into old, leafless wood, as it will fail to regenerate.
Do not plant in heavy, poorly drained clay soils.
Do not overwater during the hot summer months.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Coastal GardenRock GardenUnderstory PlantingBird GardenContainer Cultivation

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Common Correa questions

What zones can Common Correa grow in?

Common Correa 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.

Is Common Correa deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Common Correa, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Common Correa bloom?

Common Correa typically blooms in late fall through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Common Correa need full sun?

Common Correa does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Common Correa drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Common Correa handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.