Eremophila divaricata, commonly known as the spreading emu-bush, is a species of flowering plant in the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae. This shrub is a distinctive component of the Australian flora, recognized for its spreading habit and adaptability to arid environments. Its scientific name, Eremophila, derives from Greek words meaning "desert lover," aptly describing its ecological niche. The spreading emu-bush typically forms a low, spreading, and often somewhat straggly shrub, usually reaching a height of between 0.5 to 1.5 meters, with a spread that can be considerably wider. Its branches are numerous and often arching, contributing to its characteristic diffuse form. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems and are generally linear to narrowly lanceolate, measuring approximately 2 to 5 centimeters in length and 2 to 5 millimeters in width. They are typically grey-green in color and can be slightly hairy, especially when young. The flowers are a prominent feature, appearing solitarily or in small clusters, primarily in the leaf axils. They are tubular or funnel-shaped, with five lobes, and are typically pale lilac to mauve or sometimes white, often with darker markings or spots within the throat. The flowering period can vary but often occurs in response to rainfall, with a peak typically observed during spring and summer. Following flowering, small, ovoid to globose capsules develop, containing seeds. The bark is generally rough and greyish. Eremophila divaricata is native to arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, with its distribution extending across Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory. It is commonly found in a variety of habitats, including sandy soils, gravelly plains, and rocky outcrops, often in mallee scrub, open woodlands, and spinifex grasslands. This species is well-adapted to its harsh environment, tolerating drought and high temperatures. While it thrives in well-drained soils and full sun in its native habitat, it can be cultivated in similar conditions in gardens. It is a hardy plant that generally requires minimal care once established, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. The spreading emu-bush holds ecological significance as a food source for native fauna, particularly birds and insects that feed on its nectar and potentially its seeds. While not widely cultivated for ornamental purposes compared to some other Eremophila species, its unique form and delicate flowers can add texture and subtle color to native gardens. There is no established record of significant medicinal, culinary, or economic uses for Eremophila divaricata. A notable characteristic of Eremophila divaricata is its ability to survive and reproduce in extremely dry conditions, demonstrating efficient water use and drought tolerance mechanisms common to many desert-adapted plants. Its open, spreading growth habit may also be an adaptation to maximize light capture in open, often low-lying vegetation communities.