About
Pleiocarpa mutica is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae) producing simple, leathery leaves and tubular flowers. A rewarding plant for a frost-free, sheltered garden or heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Pleiocarpa are evergreen shrubs or small trees in the dogbane family (Apocynaceae), native to Africa, producing simple, leathery leaves and tubular flowers. Grown in frost-free, sheltered gardens and heated glasshouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBamboos
HabitSuckering, Clump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toJapan
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun or partial shade. Protect from cold drying winds. May remain clump-forming in poor or dry soils but can become invasive in warm, moist or favourable conditions and need restraining ; see bamboo control and bamboo cultivation
PruningThin spent canes as required to improve appearance of plant+AI930
PropagationRemove weak, dead, damaged or spindly stems in spring and thin to show off stems to best effect. Cut out any flowering shoots promptly to discourage more from forming - see bamboo cultivation
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free