About
A tropical evergreen shrub or small tree, to around 5m high in cultivation, with tiered branches bearing lance-shaped to elliptic, shiny fresh green leaves that are tapered at the base and paler underneath. Leaves are flushed bright reddish bronze when young. Long clusters of small, aromatic, yellow-green flowers are produced at the base of young shoots in spring, followed by clusters of round, purple-black berries.
About the genus
Persea are evergreen shrubs or small trees with simple leaves and small greenish flowers, followed by pear-shaped, dark green fruits with edible flesh
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
Native toTaiwan
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationSuitable for warmer areas. Grow in humus-rich, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil in sun or part shade, with shelter from cold winds and late frosts
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to Phytophthora root rot