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.