MARIANTHUS bicolor

A semi climbing shrub with dark brown winding stems and small dark green leaves. Attractive creamy white open flowers streaked with violet markings 2.5 cm across occur from December to May.
Prune lightly to maintain shape. Adaptable to most soils and conditions, very hardy, drought and frost resistant.

Marianthus bicolor was previously known as Billardiera bicolor.
Endemic to the South-West Province of Western Australia.

Grow notes:

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn in temperate climates, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 18-22°C for this species.

Pre-treatment of smoke Recommended.

This genus is responsive to smoke, although it is not critical for germination of this species it usually beneficial in reducing the number of days to germination and increasing germination rates. Smoke treatments available by clicking here.

1. Sow seed on surface of a porous seed raising mix. The seed will lodge in the the pores of the mix once watered.
2. Sprinkle a light covering of the seed raising mix over the seed. Do not bury too seed deeply.
3. Water with fine mist spray to avoid disturbance of the seed.
4. Place in a warm shaded or semi shaded position to avoid dying out.
5. Keep warm & moist, avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
6. Germination generally occurs in around 21-42 days in the right conditions.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.