Overview
Calophyllum is a plant with a tree habit in the genus Calophyllum, part of the Clusiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Calophyllum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include specimen tree and coastal planting.
About
Calophyllum is an evergreen tree in the Clusiaceae grown as a specimen or for coastal planting. It favours a south-facing, sheltered position and performs best in full sun on neutral, loamy, well-drained soil. In the UK it is frost-tender (H1b) and is therefore suited to a conservatory, greenhouse or the warmest, most sheltered outdoor sites. The tree shows garden interest through spring and summer.
About the genus
Calophyllum is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the family Calophyllaceae. They are mainly distributed in Asia, with some species in Africa, the Americas, Australasia, and the Pacific Islands.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Calophyllum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Calophyllum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen tree, coastal planting
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Calophyllum
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Moderate
- Disease resistance
- Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Calophyllum?
Calophyllum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Calophyllum need?
Calophyllum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Calophyllum hardy in the UK?
Calophyllum has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Calophyllum?
Seed.
