About
This half-hardy evergreen shrub or multi-stemmed tree to around 3m high, with elliptic, toothed, glossy dark green leaves. Long, loose spikes of small white flowers are produced in the leaf axils in spring, followed by small white berries with orange spots. Young shoots are coated with fine white hairs.
About the genus
Maesa is a genus containing species of varied habit, from compact perennials to larger woody plants. Members are valued in horticulture for their flowers, foliage, or overall form and are found in diverse habitats worldwide
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationMay be grown outdoors in frost-free areas, in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered, sunny spot. In colder areas, grow in a warm or temperate greenhouse, or in containers that can be overwintered indoors, in peat-free, loam-based compost with added grit. Position in full light with shade from hot sun, water moderately in growth and sparingly in winter
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 18-24°C as soon as ripe
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free