Overview
Dracophyllum prostratum is a plant with a shrub, small tree habit in the genus Dracophyllum, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Dracophyllum prostratum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include specimen plant, rock garden and coastal planting.
About
Dracophyllum prostratum is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Ericaceae family. It thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect, preferring fertile, well-drained loam soil that is moist and acidic. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for use as a specimen plant, in rock gardens, or for coastal planting. This cultivar is best appreciated in spring and summer and can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
About the genus
Dracophyllum is a genus of plants belonging to the family Ericaceae, formerly Epacridaceae. There are 61 species in the genus, mostly shrubs, but also cushion plants and trees, found in New Zealand, Australia, Lord Howe Island and New Caledonia. Although dicotyledonous, they resemble primitive monocots with their slender leaves concentrated in clumps at the ends of the branches; they are sometimes called grass-trees.
Wikipedia contributors, "Dracophyllum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dracophyllum
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Dracophyllum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Dracophyllum prostratum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, small tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen plant, rock garden, coastal planting
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Dracophyllum prostratum
- Propagation
- Seed, cuttings
- Pest resistance
- High
- Disease resistance
- High
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Dracophyllum prostratum?
Dracophyllum prostratum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Dracophyllum prostratum need?
Dracophyllum prostratum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
Is Dracophyllum prostratum hardy in the UK?
Dracophyllum prostratum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Dracophyllum prostratum?
Seed, cuttings.