Coleonema pulchrum 'Sunset Gold'
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Common NameGolden Breath of Heaven
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CA NativeNon-native
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Plant TypeShrub
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Size2' - 4' x 2' - 4'
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Flower ColorPink
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Bloom Time
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Spring
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LeavesYellow-Green Needle-like Leaves
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EvergreenEvergreen
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Deer ResistantRarely Damaged
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Wildlife Value
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Bees
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Growth RateModerate
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HardinessSemi-hardy
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Adverse Growth FactorsNone
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Special Features
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Erosion Control
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Fragrance
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Water Use
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Moderate
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Soil pH6.5-7.5 (neutral)
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Exposure
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Full Sun
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Partial Shade
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Shade
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Soil TypeNot Particular
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DrainageGood Drainage
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Description and Cultural Plant Tips
Coleonema is a medium to large shrub with bright yellow-green aromatic soft heath-like leaves and small star-like pink or white flowers in the late winter and spring The branches are thin and flexible so they move with the wind. This is a good shrub for banks, hillsides and along paths where their aromatic fragrance is released when brushed against.
Plant in a sunny, well-drained area of your garden. Coleonema can tolerate part shade but does best in full sun. Set rootball at ground level and fill hole with a soil mixture of equal parts soil and soil amendments. Water regularly until established. It is fairly drought tolerant once established. Fertilize in spring just before new growth begins. Shear lightly after main bloom to control size and keep compact. However, many think that it looks better unsheared as it will move more with the wind.
Bees enjoy the nectar from this plant.
No significant pests or diseases.
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Master Gardener Comments
I have this shrub planted on a south facing hillside. The hillside looks golden in the sun. I rarely prune it so that it has gotten very wide. I love the way it flows with the wind. It looks like the whole hillside is alive.
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Varietals
C. album - white flowers