Overview

Myoporum insulare is a bushy, spreading branched shrubs in the genus Myoporum, part of the Scrophulariaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Myoporum insulare grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates chalk and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden, sub-tropical, low maintenance, flower borders and beds, garden edging and ground cover.

About

Myoporum insulare, commonly known as common boobialla, native juniper, is a species of flowering plant in the figwort family Scrophulariaceae and is endemic to coastal areas of Australia. It is a shrub or small tree which grows on dunes and coastal cliffs, is very salt tolerant and widely used in horticulture.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Myoporum

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Myoporum insulare size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Garden edging, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Myoporum insulare

Propagation
Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer to early autumn
Pest resistance
Scale insects (may be susceptible when grown under glass)
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Myoporum insulare?

Myoporum insulare prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Myoporum insulare need?

Myoporum insulare grows best in chalk and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Myoporum insulare hardy in the UK?

Myoporum insulare has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.

How do I propagate Myoporum insulare?

Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer to early autumn.

More in the Myoporum genus

Browse all Myoporum