Overview
Myrsine africana var. retusa is a bushy, columnar upright shrubs in the genus Myrsine, part of the Primulaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Myrsine africana var. retusa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, garden edging and hedging and screens.
About
Myrsine africana, also called Cape myrtle, African boxwood or thakisa, is a species of shrub in the family Primulaceae. It is indigenous to Southern and Eastern Africa, the Azores, the Arabian Peninsula, South Asia and East Asia.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Myrsine
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand, Clay
- 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
Myrsine africana var. retusa size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy, Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Garden edging, Hedging and screens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Myrsine africana var. retusa
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Myrsine africana var. retusa?
Myrsine africana var. retusa prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Myrsine africana var. retusa need?
Myrsine africana var. retusa is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and clay. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Myrsine africana var. retusa hardy in the UK?
Myrsine africana var. retusa 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 Myrsine africana var. retusa?
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings.
