Overview
Lawsonia inermis is a bushy tree in the genus Lawsonia, part of the Lythraceae family, with evergreen foliage. Lawsonia inermis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include hedging and screens.
About
Lawsonia inermis is an evergreen small tree in the Lythraceae with a multi-branched habit. It is sold under names such as Egyptian privet, henna and Jamaica mignonette. Best grown in full sun on neutral loam, it offers seasonal interest through spring and summer. Plant it in a south-facing, sheltered spot for use as a hedging or screening species.
In the garden
Lawsonia inermis is an evergreen small tree in the family Lythraceae, often offered under common names including Egyptian privet, henna and Jamaica mignonette. It develops as a multi-branched specimen suited to forming a dense screen where year-round foliage is required. Position it in full sun on a neutral loam that remains moist but well drained; avoid waterlogged sites. A south-facing, sheltered aspect reduces exposure to cold winds and suits its requirements. The species carries a UK hardiness rating of H6, which translates to very hardy in UK horticultural terms when given protection from driving wind and the coldest microclimates. Use Lawsonia inermis for hedging and screens where evergreen cover is needed through winter, with its main season of interest occurring in spring and summer. Planting as a closely spaced screen or clipped boundary will capitalise on its multi-branched habit and evergreen foliage. For a sheltered, south-facing boundary it provides continuous screening without seasonal gaps.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lawsonia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Lawsonia inermis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Tree
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Hedging and screens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lawsonia inermis
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn, hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects, holly leaf miner, aphids
- Disease resistance
- Holly leaf blight, Phytophthora root rot, honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lawsonia inermis?
Lawsonia inermis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Lawsonia inermis need?
Lawsonia inermis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Lawsonia inermis hardy in the UK?
Lawsonia inermis has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Lawsonia inermis?
Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn, hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat.