Overview
Melicytus ramiflorus is a bushy shrubs in the genus Melicytus, part of the Violaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Melicytus ramiflorus grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include coastal and cottage and informal garden.
About
Melicytus ramiflorus, commonly known as māhoe, hinahina, and whiteywood, is a species of shrub or small tree in the family Violaceae. This species is characterised by its flowers and purple fruits, which grow directly from woody stems, a trait known as ramiflory. A distinguishing feature of this plant is the skeletonised leaves on the leaf litter, where the leaves retain their veins even after the rest of the tissue has decayed. There are two recognised subspecies of this plant: M. ramiflorus subsp. ramiflorus endemic to New Zealand, and subsp. oblongifolius endemic to Norfolk Island. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). It works well for coastal and cottage and informal garden. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and west-facing, south-facing and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Melicytus ramiflorus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Melicytus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Melicytus ramiflorus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Melicytus ramiflorus
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Melicytus ramiflorus?
Melicytus ramiflorus prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Melicytus ramiflorus need?
Melicytus ramiflorus is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Melicytus ramiflorus hardy in the UK?
Melicytus ramiflorus has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Melicytus ramiflorus?
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings.
