Overview
Lophomyrtus obcordata is a bushy shrubs in the genus Lophomyrtus, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Lophomyrtus obcordata grows best in partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, climber and wall shrubs, conservatory and greenhouse and wall side borders.
About
Lophomyrtus obcordata, commonly known by its Māori name rōhutu or tutuhi, is a species of flowering plant in the family Myrtaceae. It is endemic to New Zealand, usually found in lowland forest. Lophomyrtus comes from the ancient Greek lóphos (crest), meaning bunches; and Myrtus (myrtle) meaning myrtle tree. Obcordata is associated with a heart-shaped leaf, attached to the peduncle by the pointed end. Grow it in partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it is half-hardy and may need winter protection in colder areas (RHS H3). It works well for city and courtyard gardens, climber and wall shrubs, conservatory and greenhouse and wall side borders. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing, south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Lophomyrtus obcordata
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lophomyrtus
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Chalk, Clay, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Lophomyrtus obcordata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Climber and wall shrubs, Conservatory and greenhouse, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lophomyrtus obcordata
- Propagation
- Seed sown as soon as ripe, Semi-ripe cuttings in summer with bottom heat
- Pest resistance
- Glasshouse red spider mite may be a problem under glass
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lophomyrtus obcordata?
Lophomyrtus obcordata prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Lophomyrtus obcordata need?
Lophomyrtus obcordata is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, chalk, clay and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Lophomyrtus obcordata hardy in the UK?
Lophomyrtus obcordata 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 Lophomyrtus obcordata?
Seed sown as soon as ripe, Semi-ripe cuttings in summer with bottom heat.
