White breath of heaven (Coleonema album)
Also known as: White confetti bush
Coleonema album is a small, fast-growing evergreen shrub, with needle-like aromatic foliage and numerous small white flowers. Native to South Africa, it is also cultivated in other parts of the world as an ornamental.
In This Article
Attributes of White breath of heaven
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Plant Height
1.2 m to 1.5 m
Spread
1.2 m to 1.5 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
White Pink Purple
Images of White breath of heaven
Quickly Identify White breath of heaven
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Compact evergreen shrub, 4-5 feet (120-150 cm) tall and wide.
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Needle-like foliage emits pleasant aroma when touched.
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Branches heavily adorned with dense needle-like foliage.
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Small, white, star-shaped flowers with sweet honey-like fragrance.
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Flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Scientific Classification of White breath of heaven
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Sapindales
Family
Rue
Genus
Cape mays
Species
White breath of heaven
Planting and Growing of White breath of heaven
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Watering Schedule
Every 3 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
65-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water White breath of heaven?
Coleonema album needs about 500 ml of water each session. The key principle is to ensure dampness without waterlogging. Water the plant until the soil feels evenly moist to the touch but not soggy, allowing excess to drain away.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered White breath of heaven?
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What should I do if my White breath of heaven is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered White breath of heaven?
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How to save an overwatered White breath of heaven?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for White breath of heaven?
Coleonema album thrives in full to partial sun. Ideal light conditions enhance its flowering potential and overall health by providing enough energy for vigorous growth.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What is the best location for Coleonema album?
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How does Coleonema album benefit from full sun exposure?
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What if Coleonema album does not receive ideal sunlight?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for White breath of heaven?
Coleonema album, commonly known as Breath of Heaven, thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 75°F. This range allows for optimal growth and flowering, as it mimics the plant's native environment in South Africa. Providing these conditions ensures robust health and lush foliage.
What Soil is Best for White breath of heaven?
Coleonema album thrives in well-draining soil which prevents root rot and ensures the plant has access to necessary oxygen. Keeping the roots well-ventilated promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage. A nutrient-rich soil is essential for Coleonema album as it fuels its development and flowering process. Providing ample nutrients enhances its growth speed and robustness, producing lush and resilient plants. Coleonema album prefers soils that retain moderate moisture without becoming waterlogged. This balance helps avoid dehydration without the risk of root diseases that result from excess water.
How to Fertilize White breath of heaven?
Coleonema album requires a balanced approach to fertilization. Use a general-purpose liquid fertilizer at half strength to avoid overwhelming the plant. For slow-release granular fertilizers, apply at a rate suggested by the manufacturer, ensuring not to exceed recommendations to maintain healthy growth.
How to Prune White breath of heaven?
Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to improve the overall health of the plant. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts, reducing the risk of plant diseases. To maintain a compact and appealing shape, trim back excessive growth uniformly. Focus on cutting just above a leaf node or a lateral branch to encourage bushy new growth. After the plant has finished blooming, trim back the flowered stems by about one-third. This will stimulate the plant to produce more blooms in subsequent cycles.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate White breath of heaven plant?
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Choose healthy branches for cuttings, ideally semi-hardwood. Cut sections approximately 10-15 cm long, ensuring each has several nodes, and trim just below a node.
2
Collect mature seeds from the plant, dry them, and then store them in a cool, dark place until ready to sow in early spring for optimal germination.
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Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone to promote root development. Plant it in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly.
How to Repot White breath of heaven plant?
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Coleonema album needs repotting when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes, or if growth is stunted. Spring and autumn are ideal, as the plant is less likely to be stressed, allowing for a smooth transition.
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Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and has good drainage. A ceramic or terracotta pot is preferable as it allows better air circulation, which is vital for the plant's roots, preventing rot.
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Select a well-draining acidic soil rich in organic matter. This type of soil allows excess water to escape, preventing waterlogging and providing the Coleonema album the nutrient-rich environment it thrives in.
