About
A dense and compact evergreen shrub to 1.5m tall, with narrowly linear, dark green leaves. In early summer it produces small, creamy-white flowers, which although insignificant are pleasantly scented. A good plant for hedging or topiary.
About the genus
Phillyrea are evergreen shrubs with simple, opposite, leathery leaves and small, often fragrant white flowers, followed by purple to black berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal
Native toN Africa & S Europe
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade, with shelter from cold, drying winds
PruningSee pruning group 1 or pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer or layering in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to Phillyrea whitefly
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility