Kunzea Mandys Surprise

Minimum order quantity for this plant in 14cm pots is 3 units

Kunzea ‘Mandy’s Surprise’ is a vibrant, fast-growing Australian native shrub known for its profusion of soft pink to mauve fluffy flowers that appear in spring and early summer. The fine, aromatic foliage and upright habit make it a standout feature plant or informal hedge. It typically reaches 1.5 to 2 metres in height and width, forming a dense, rounded shape. The flowers are highly attractive to native bees, birds, and butterflies, adding both colour and life to the garden.

In Australia, ‘Mandy’s Surprise’ thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-draining soils, including sandy and loamy types. It is well-suited to a wide range of climates including Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and can withstand light frost. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and keep roots cool. Prune after flowering to maintain a compact form and encourage a bushier growth habit. A light feed with native plant fertiliser in early spring enhances flowering and overall vigour.

Ideal companion plants include other sun-loving natives such as Callistemon ‘Little John’, Grevillea ‘Strawberries and Cream’, Leptospermum ‘Pink Cascade’, and Lomandra ‘Tanika’. These companions share similar cultural needs and together create a dynamic and textured native planting palette. Groundcovers like Myoporum parvifolium or Scaevola ‘Aussie Salute’ also pair well, helping to cover bare soil and reduce weeds while complementing the Kunzea’s upright form. This combination supports pollinators and provides year-round interest with minimal maintenance.