About

This large, semi-evergreen shrub with upright branches and dark green, leathery leaves up to 10cm long. In spring, short, dense clusters of brown-felted buds open to reveal petal-less flowers with red anthers and yellow filaments.

About the genus

Sycopsis are evergreen or semi-evergreen trees and shrubs with leathery, oval or oblong leaves and small clusters of petal-less flowers in spring

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toC China

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid or neutral soil in sun or semi-shade, protected from cold, drying winds
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, or by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free