Overview
Atherosperma is a plant with a tree, up to 30m tall habit in the genus Atherosperma, part of the Atherospermataceae family, with evergreen, aromatic leaves foliage. It typically grows around 30 metres tall. Atherosperma grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include specimen tree and ornamental.
About
Atherosperma is a cultivar of substantial evergreen trees known for their simple, aromatic foliage and individual drooping flowers, with male and female blooms on separate plants. Growing up to 30 metres tall, it thrives best in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with fertile, well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H3, this tree is suitable as a specimen or ornamental feature, showing interest during spring and summer. It can be propagated by seed or semi-ripe cuttings and prefers a sheltered position in sun or part shade.
About the genus
Atherosperma is a genus of flowering plant in the family Atherospermataceae. Its only species is Atherosperma moschatum, commonly known as black sassafras, Australian sassafras, southern sassafras, native sassafras or Tasmanian sassafras. It is a shrub to conical tree and is endemic to south-eastern Australia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Atherosperma", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Atherosperma
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Atherosperma
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Atherosperma size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Tree, up to 30m tall
- Foliage
- Evergreen, aromatic leaves
- Height
- 30 metres
- Suggested uses
- Specimen tree, ornamental
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Atherosperma
- Propagation
- Seed, semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to root rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Atherosperma?
Atherosperma prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Atherosperma need?
Atherosperma grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Atherosperma grow?
Atherosperma reaches a height of 30 metres.
Is Atherosperma hardy in the UK?
Atherosperma has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Atherosperma?
Seed, semi-ripe cuttings.