About
A large, upright evergreen shrub or tree with long leathery dark green leaves. Both bark and leaves are aromatic and from spring to early summer, perfumed creamy white flowers 2.5cm across are produced. The undersides are a striking silvery pale blue underneath.
About the genus
Drimys are evergreen trees and shrubs with attractive, aromatic, leathery leaves and terminal clusters of small, star-shaped flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toChile
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a well-drained soil in a sheltered position in full sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed in a cold frame in autumn or by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free