Description: Xanthostemon chrysanthus, commonly known as Golden Penda, is an evergreen tree or large shrub renowned for its spectacular clusters of golden yellow flowers and glossy green foliage. This plant is particularly valued for its ornamental appeal and ability to attract wildlife, making it an excellent choice for gardens and landscapes.

Flowers:

• Blooms: The plant produces dense clusters of bright golden yellow flowers from late spring to autumn. The blooms are composed of numerous long, showy stamens, creating a striking visual display.
• Fragrance: The flowers have a light, sweet fragrance and are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Foliage:

• Leaves: The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elliptical, providing a lush and vibrant appearance year-round. New growth often emerges with a reddish tint.
• Seasonal Color: The foliage remains green throughout the year, adding continuous visual interest.

Fruit:

• Fruit: The plant produces small, woody capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. These fruits are generally not significant for ornamental value.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 5-10 meters tall and 3-5 meters wide, forming a dense, rounded shape.
• Habit: Upright and bushy with a well-branched structure, making it suitable for various landscape uses.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates and is suitable for warm regions in Australia. It can tolerate light frosts but prefers warmer conditions.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soils but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes the best growth and flowering, while partial shade is tolerated.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it benefits from consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of drought.

Uses:

• Ornamental Tree: Highly valued as an ornamental tree for its vibrant flowers and attractive foliage.
• Hedges and Screening: Ideal for creating tall hedges and screens due to its dense growth habit.
• Specimen Plant: Suitable as a focal point in gardens and landscapes.
• Wildlife Garden: Excellent for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, as well as birds.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Regular pruning helps keep the plant tidy and promotes healthy new growth.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and prolific flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to many pests and diseases. Monitor for common pests such as aphids and scale insects. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent fungal diseases.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frost to prevent damage to new growth.

Companion Plants: Pair with other tropical and subtropical plants such as hibiscus, frangipani, and bromeliads to create a vibrant and diverse garden display

Xanthostemon chrysanthus

Common Name: Golden Penda

Botanical Name: Xanthostemon chrysanthus

Family: Myrtaceae

Origin: Native to Northern Australia

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