Overview
Mesua ferrea is a plant with a tree habit in the genus Mesua, part of the Clusiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Mesua ferrea grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include specimen tree and tropical-style gardens.
About
Mesua ferrea, the Ceylon ironwood, or cobra saffron, is a species in the family Calophyllaceae native to the Indomalayan realm. This slow-growing tree is named after the heaviness and hardness of its timber.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Mesua
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Mesua ferrea size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen tree, Tropical-style gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Mesua ferrea
- 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 Mesua ferrea?
Mesua ferrea prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Mesua ferrea need?
Mesua ferrea grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Mesua ferrea hardy in the UK?
Mesua ferrea has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Mesua ferrea?
Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or early autumn, Hardwood cuttings in January with bottom heat.