The spotted emu bush is commonly known as a flowering shrub native to Australia but is often cultivated in desert gardens, including those in the Coachella Valley Desert. It belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family.
Description:
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Growth: A medium-sized evergreen shrub, typically reaching 3–6 feet tall and wide. It has a dense, rounded form with arching branches.
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Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, and often sticky or resinous, providing drought resistance.
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Flowers: Tubular, 1–1.5 inches long, in shades of pink, red, orange, or purple, often with darker spots (hence the name maculata, meaning "spotted"). The flowers bloom mainly in spring and winter, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators.
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Fruit: Small, dry, and woody, containing seeds for reproduction.
Adaptations & Cultivation:
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Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in arid and semi-arid environments with minimal water.
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Soil Preferences: Prefers well-draining soils such as sandy or rocky substrates but can tolerate clay if not waterlogged.
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Sunlight: Requires full sun for best flowering.
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Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 20°F (-6°C), making it suitable for lower desert regions with occasional frost.
Ecological & Practical Uses:
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Wildlife Attraction: Hummingbirds, bees, and native insects visit the nectar-rich flowers.
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Erosion Control: Its deep root system helps stabilize soil.
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Ornamental Use: Popular in xeriscaping and drought-resistant gardens due to its long-lasting blooms and minimal maintenance needs.
Though not native to North America, Eremophila maculata is an excellent non-invasive choice for enhancing desert landscapes while supporting pollinators.
