About

A small evergreen tree or shrub up 8m height and spread, with long, weeping tri-foliate leaves. Through the summer, there are clouds of small yellow-green flowers, which on a female plant - if a male is also grown - develop into cream-coloured berries.

About the genus

Searsia is a genus containing species of varied habit, from compact perennials to larger woody plants. Members are valued in horticulture for their flowers, foliage, or overall form and are found in diverse habitats worldwide

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH6

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal, City and courtyard gardens, Prairie planting

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. Tolerates salt spray and drought once established. For more information see tree cultivation.
PruningPruning group 1 but lower branches can be cleared to maintain a clear base, or more tree-like form
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings or by sowing seed. For more advice see our information on how to propagate from seed (tree/shrub
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to verticillium wilt