Eremophila glabra orange form (Emu Bushes)

We were driving along the Konardin track near Hattah-Kulkyne National Park and came across this lovely orange flowered Eremophila glabra.

Eremophilas are such drought hardy plants that they are proving to be very popular with gardeners at the moment. Drought has taken its toll on many otherwise hardy plants. Generally speaking Eremophilas are arid land plants. Surprisingly most like quite heavy soils but also prefer good drainage. Trimming after flowering from the very beginning maintains the foliage near the trunk and branches. Many Eremophilas become very woody without this. Some species can be cut back very hard to bare wood and they will sprout new growth.

It seems to be a problem in wetter areas to grow these plants. Raised beds may be the answer and also open areas with good air movement.