Eremophila nivea (silky eremophila)

Japanese name: エレモフィラ ニベア
Scientific name: Eremophila nivea

[Overview]
An evergreen shrub 0.8–1.6 m tall.
The stems and leaves are densely covered with short white to grayish-white hairs, so the whole plant looks silvery gray.
Leaves are simple and alternate, linear, 8–18 mm long and 1.5–2.5 mm wide, with entire margins.
The flowers are borne singly or in pairs in the leaf axils; they are 15–23 mm long and bluish purple, with yellowish-brown spots on the inside.
The fruit is elliptical, 4.5–6 mm long.

[Cultivation]
Propagate by cuttings.
It can overwinter at 3°C or above, and can be grown outdoors in regions without frost.
It prefers a sunny, well-drained place, but dislikes heat and humidity, so in midsummer move it to a well-ventilated partial shade or provide shading.
For potted plants, from spring to autumn water thoroughly when the soil surface dries, and keep it on the dry side in winter.
For plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
It is weak against excess moisture, so it is better kept somewhat dry.
Long rains can cause root rot or darkening of the surface.
For potted plants, apply slow-release fertilizer in spring and autumn in addition to a base fertilizer.
For plants in the ground, nothing is needed other than the base fertilizer.
There are no particular pests or diseases.

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