Silky Eremophila (Eremophila nivea)

Silky Eremophila

Eremophila nivea

Soft silver foliage glows like moonlight in arid gardens. Drought-tolerant evergreen shrub; common name: Silky Eremophila.

Full sun
0–1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun exposure required for optimal flowering and foliage color; tolerates partial shade in extreme midday heat
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water deeply once every 1–2 weeks in growing season, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm arid climates; tolerates light frosts down to 5°C, avoid prolonged freezing temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Silvery-white, linear to lanceolate leaves covered in dense soft hairs, 1–3 cm long
  • Flower: Tubular, pale lilac to white flowers, 1–2 cm long, clustered in leaf axils
  • Stem: Woody, silver-grey stems with fine pubescence
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply once every 10–14 days; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

Fertilization

Apply a low-phosphorus native plant fertilizer once at the start of growing season. Do not use high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can damage the shrub's drought-adapted roots

Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer around the base in early spring; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent potential burn
Pruning
  • Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain compact rounded shape
  • Remove dead or damaged branches in early spring to improve airflow
  • Avoid heavy hard pruning as it may reduce flowering in subsequent seasons
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub for arid landscape design; attracts native pollinators