Cockies Tongue / Coral Bush
Templetonia retusa, commonly known as Cockies Tongue or Coral Bush, is a tough Australian shrub indigenous to South Australia. It is known for its bright red, bird-attracting flowers and thrives in well-drained soils, though it tolerates a variety of soil types. Preferring full sun to part shade, it tolerates moderate frost and is often seen in revegetation projects alongside roads. Once established, it is waterwise and well-suited to coastal and arid conditions. Its vibrant foliage and flowers provide great contrast, making it an excellent feature plant in low- maintenance native gardens.
- Botanical name: Templetonia retusa
- Form: Dense, rounded shrub
- Height: 2 metres
- Width: 3 metres
- Foliage: Thick, leathery, oval-shaped leaves
- Flowers: Bright red, pea-shaped; bloom in late winter to spring
- Attracts: Birds and pollinators
- Ideal for: Informal hedges, as a feature plant, soil stabilisation, coastal and waterwise gardens, habitat gardens