Aniseed Boronia (Boronia crenulata)

Aniseed Boronia

Boronia crenulata

Its star-shaped blooms carry sweet aniseed scent, a delicate evergreen shrub. Common name: Aniseed Boronia.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; prefers morning sun with afternoon shade in hot summer climates to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Tolerates light frosts down to 5°C; avoid extreme heat above 30°C which can stress foliage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small oval leaves with crenulated (toothed) edges; glossy green, aromatic when crushed
  • Flower: Star-shaped pale pink to white blooms; clustered at stem tips
  • Stem: Slender woody stems, densely branching to form a rounded habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during flowering season

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks during active growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can reduce flowering

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent potential burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms immediately after flowering to encourage extended blooming cycles
  • Thin overcrowded branches in late spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
  • Trim back leggy growth after flowering to maintain a compact, rounded shape
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; cut flower for floral arrangements due to its sweet scent