Shrub
Emu Bush
Eremophila
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
Valentine RedEremophila maculataWinter BlazeEremophila glabraMac VlntnEremophila maculataMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
2 galFrom$54.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
LightFull Sun
WaterLow
Mature size3-6 feet × 3-5 feet
About Emu Bush
Emu Bush (Eremophila spp.) is a genus of Australian evergreen shrubs producing colorful tubular flowers in red, purple, pink, and white that attract hummingbirds. Cold-hardy to zone 9a/9b, they thrive in NE Florida's sandy, well-drained soils with full sun but require careful moisture management given Florida's summer humidity. Starting at $54.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- Red, Pink, Purple
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season. Handles summer heat well once established.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Plant Emu Bush in full sun — it requires maximum direct light and will not thrive in shade. In NE Florida's humid climate, full sun also promotes air circulation that helps reduce disease pressure.
Water
Emu Bush is highly drought-tolerant and is sensitive to overwatering, which causes root rot. Water only to establish; thereafter rely on rainfall. In NE Florida's summer rainy season, ensure sharp drainage to prevent standing water around roots.
Soil & Fertilizer
Must have excellent drainage — plant in raised beds or mounded sandy soil to avoid Florida's periodic wet conditions. Eremophila tolerates poor, low-nutrient soils; avoid heavy fertilization. Amend with coarse sand if soil is compacted or slow-draining.
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Common questions
Is Emu Bush a good plant for St. Augustine?
Emu Bush is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-6 feet × 3-5 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.