Story courtesy of Coastlines magazine. Words: Sarah Ansell.

Bursaria spinosa, also known as Christmas Bush, is a hardy, native shrub that is a real MVP in any habitat garden. This versatile plant, common in the Mount Lofty Ranges, thrives in a variety of conditions, making it an adaptable choice for gardeners looking to attract wildlife. With dense, prickly branches and clusters of fragrant, white flowers around Christmas time, Bursaria provides essential shelter and food for a range of native species.

One of the main benefits of is its role in supporting insect life. The flowers attract an array of pollinators, including native bees, butterflies, and wasps, which are crucial for biodiversity and the health of surrounding plants. If you see a flowering Bursaria in nature or the garden, stand by it for a few minutes and you will lose count of the number of insects you will see! Bursaria is a known food source for caterpillars of various native butterfly species including the Common Brown. Small birds like wrens and finches love the dense, spiny foliage as a safe nesting and foraging refuge.

In the garden, Bursaria is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. Its deep root system improves soil structure and can help stabilise slopes and prevent erosion. As a nitrogen-fixer, it enriches the soil, benefiting surrounding plants and general soil health. Incorporating Bursaria spinosa into a habitat garden not only creates a biodiverse environment but also supports resilient ecosystems that can thrive with minimal intervention—making it a sustainable and valuable addition for any nature-focused gardener.

Keen to add Bursaria to your garden? The Second Nature Community Nurseries at Mount Barker and Goolwa can help you! Visit us at www.secondnature.org.au

Bursaria spinosa. Image: S. Ansell