General Description:

Kunzea is closely related to the genera Callistemon, Melaleuca and Leptospermum. About 50 species occur in all Australian states and territories and there are about another 10 species in New Zealand. They are small to medium woody shrubs and the majority occur naturally in south Western Australia.

Some of the main differences between Kunzea and its close relatives are:

• The five sepals and petals are deciduous (persistent in Callistemon).
• The stamens are longer than the petals (shorter in Leptospermum).
• The stamens are free (united in five bundles in Melaleuca).
• Seed is released from the ripe fruit annually (usually retained on the plant in the other three genera).

Kunzea affiniss is usually an erect shrub to about 1.5 metres in height with small leaves to about 6 mm long by 1 mm wide. The five-petalled, pink flowers have prominent stamens and are similar in appearance to those of Leptospermum. They occur in spring and are followed by small 1-celled fruits which release numerous small seeds when ripe.

This species has been in cultivation for many years. It is best suited to Mediterranean climates (dry summer – wet winter) and is often short-lived in more humid climates. It requires excellent drainage and a sunny or lightly shaded position. It withstands at least moderate frost.

Propagation is easy from both seed and cuttings. If seed is being collected, the plants need to be kept under observation or the seed will be lost.