About
A densely twiggy, sometimes spiny, shrub with small, oval ,dark green, leathery leaves. Tiny, yellow flowers are followed by white berries, usually with purple patches, 5mm across on female plants.
About the genus
Melicytus are evergreen or semi-evergreen shrubs with sweetly fragrant leaves. The small male and female flowers are usually borne on separate plants and the females can go on to produce showy berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden
Native toNew Zealand
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a moist, well-drained soil in an open, sunny position, with protection from cold, drying winds. Needs a long, hot summer to flower and fruit well
PruningPruning group 8 or Pruning group 9
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free