Common name: Shining copper cups

Family: MYRTACEAE

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Origin of Scientific Name

Pileanthus – (Greek) pilos – a cap, and anthos – a flower; referring to the bracteoles that cover the flower buds.

rubronitidus – (Latin) ruber – red, and nitidus – shining; referring to the distinctive colour of the flowers.

Description

Pileanthus rubronitidus is a Western Australian native that occurs naturally in a restricted area between Kalbarri and Northampton. Occurring in sandy soils in heath or Banksia sceptrum shrubland, this small upright shrub grows to approximately 1 metre high with narrow leaves that produce essential oils.

It’s a fairly unassuming plant until masses of large stunning red-orange flowers appear on the ends of its branches between late September and early November. Seven other species of Pileanthus, known collectively as copper cups, all produce similarly beautiful flowers and occur only in Western Australia.

Horticultural tips

• Not common in cultivation, but successful in a Mediterranean-type climate.
• Plant in well-drained soil in full sun.
• Best planted in companion with other more densely formed plant species.
• Tip prune during establishment and prune after flowering for improved form and floral display.

For more horticultural tips view our Plant Notes section.

View in Kings Park

Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden to see Pileanthus rubronitidus near the Floral Clock.

Want more information?

Refer to the profile for this plant on the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions' FloraBase online herbarium.