Curly Boronia
(Varronia dichotoma)
Curly Boronia (Varronia dichotoma)
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© Pablo G. Fernández
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
© Pablo G. Fernández
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Pablo G. Fernández | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: pablo_gfs | Publisher: iNaturalist |















Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements
• Precipitation | 4" - 172" |
• High Temp. | 53°F - 98°F |
• Low Temp. | 32°F - 73°F |
Summary
Varronia dichotoma, commonly known as Curly Boronia, is a moderately growing evergreen shrub native to Central and South America. It typically reaches a height of 5-7 feet. The shrub is characterized by its twisted or "curly" leaves and stems, which add textural interest to the garden. During the spring and summer, Curly Boronia produces clusters of pink, fragrant flowers that are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Curly Boronia is valued for its unique foliage, fragrant and attractive flowers, and its adaptability to a range of soil types. It is often used in cultivation for rockeries, native plant gardens, and as a feature plant in mixed borders. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and hair wash. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is also drought-tolerant once established, requiring only low amounts of water. This makes it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens or regions with water restrictions. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils, so good drainage is essential. Additionally, it is not known for any significant pest or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Curly Boronia is valued for its unique foliage, fragrant and attractive flowers, and its adaptability to a range of soil types. It is often used in cultivation for rockeries, native plant gardens, and as a feature plant in mixed borders. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a medicine and hair wash. While it prefers full sun or part shade, it is also drought-tolerant once established, requiring only low amounts of water. This makes it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens or regions with water restrictions. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils, so good drainage is essential. Additionally, it is not known for any significant pest or disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrubs
- Height: 5-7 feet
- Width: 1.5-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Cream, White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Wet forests in Central and South America
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: Varronia dichotoma , Buddleja boliviana , Cordia bifurcata , Cordia corymbosa f. detonsa , Cordia dichotoma , Gerascanthus bifurcatus , Lithocardium dichotomum , Ulmarronia dichotoma , Varronia bifurcata , Varronia bifurcata , Varronia parviflora
GBIF Accepted Name: Varronia dichotoma