A compact selection of the arid-zone mulla mulla with silvery foliage and showy conical spikes of feathery silver-pink flowers all summer. A heat-loving container and cut flower star.
At a glance
- Plant type: Perennial
- Mature size: 40 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Pink Mulla Mulla
Botanically, Ptilotus exaltatus 'Joey' is a fast-growing perennial in the Amaranthaceae family, native to Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland. It reaches around 40 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with silver-grey foliage. Pink and purple flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Pink Mulla Mulla
Pink Mulla Mulla suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice, is usually left alone by rabbits and is an award-winning selection.
Soil & planting
Pink Mulla Mulla does best in sandy, free-draining and poor soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Pink Mulla Mulla handles dry conditions well once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. For the first year, favour occasional deep watering over frequent shallow drinks so roots move into the surrounding soil.
Pruning & care
Prune Pink Mulla Mulla after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Pink Mulla Mulla in the garden
Pink Mulla Mulla earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, cut flowers for the vase and feeding bees and pollinators. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Combine Pink Mulla Mulla with plants that share its preference for very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Pink Mulla Mulla
Plant Sale lists Pink Mulla Mulla as tube stock, potted plants, advanced specimens and seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Pink Mulla Mulla seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
