AZ Blue Bells Emu Bush

Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
Plant Height: 3-5 feet
Spread: 3-4 feet
Flower Color: Purple to violet-blue
Sun Exposure: Full sun

‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush: Vibrant Blooms and Silvery Foliage

The ‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush (Eremophila hygrophana) is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its silvery-gray foliage and striking purple flowers that bloom nearly year-round in Arizona. Native to Australia, this hardy plant thrives in hot, dry conditions and is perfectly suited for Phoenix Valley landscapes. Its unique color contrast and resilience make it an excellent choice for low-water gardens, borders, and accent plantings.

Key Features of ‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush

• Year-Round Color: Produces tubular purple flowers almost continuously, adding long-lasting vibrancy to landscapes.
• Silvery Foliage: Soft, gray-green leaves provide a striking contrast against the purple blooms and complement desert landscapes.
• Drought Tolerance: Extremely water-efficient once established, making it a smart choice for xeriscaping.
• Compact Growth: Naturally rounded, low-maintenance shape fits easily into modern or traditional garden designs.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils; avoid heavy clay.
• Water: Light to moderate water during establishment; very low water needs once mature.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning required—light shaping after bloom cycles helps maintain compact form.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to around 20°F; may need protection in rare hard freezes in Arizona.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Adds bold, silvery texture and vibrant flowers to focal points.
• Borders & Beds: Works beautifully in mixed plantings with agaves, yuccas, or other desert shrubs.
• Xeriscapes: Perfect for low-water gardens where color and foliage contrast are desired.
• Pollinator Plant: Tubular blooms attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

Summary

‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush is an eye-catching, low-maintenance shrub ideal for Arizona gardens. Its long bloom season, silvery foliage, and drought resistance make it one of the best choices for adding beauty and resilience to desert landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for best flowering and dense growth.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. Avoid heavy or poorly draining soil.
Spacing: Plant 3-4 feet apart for dense borders or hedges.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm soil gently after planting.
Support: Not required—naturally maintains a rounded shape.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then reduce to once weekly for the next 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 2-3 gallons per watering, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Typically 3-4 months in warm weather.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2-3 weeks. Increase to every 10-14 days during extreme heat.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is low.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 8-12 inches from plant center.
• Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 1-2 per plant, increasing as shrub matures.
• Adjusting Frequency: Water more often in peak summer; scale back in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for ‘Blue Bells’ Emu Bush

• Soil Check: Allow the top 3-4 inches of soil to dry between watering.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can cause root issues; ensure good drainage.
• Mulch: Use gravel or rock mulch around the base to reduce evaporation, but keep mulch a few inches from the crown.