Overview

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Rhodomyrtus, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal, cottage and informal garden, mediterranean climate plants, low maintenance, flower borders and beds, hedging and screens and wall side borders.

About

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, commonly known as finger cherry, is a bushy evergreen shrub belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It thrives in full sun with a south or west-facing aspect and prefers sheltered positions. This cultivar grows best in fertile, well-drained loam soils with a range of pH levels from acid to alkaline, maintaining moist but well-drained conditions. Hardy to UK zone H3, it is suitable for various garden settings including city and courtyard gardens, coastal areas, and informal cottage gardens. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, making it a versatile choice for flower borders, hedging, and wall-side borders.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Rhodomyrtus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Hedging and screens, Wall side borders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa

Propagation
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa?

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa need?

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa hardy in the UK?

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa 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 Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa?

Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings in late summer.