Overview

Tetradium velutinum is a bushy trees in the genus Tetradium, part of the Rutaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Tetradium velutinum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Tetradium velutinum is a deciduous, bushy tree cultivar within the genus Tetradium, known for its compound leaves and clusters of small, cup-like flowers that develop into dense groups of vibrant seed capsules. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, including chalk, clay, loam, or sand, across a range of pH levels. Suitable for sheltered positions with east, south, or west aspects, it is hardy to UK zone H6. This cultivar is well suited to cottage, informal, and wildlife gardens, offering winter interest. Young plants benefit from staking during establishment.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Tetradium

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Tetradium velutinum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Tetradium velutinum

Propagation
Seed, Softwood cuttings, Root cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Tetradium velutinum?

Tetradium velutinum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Tetradium velutinum need?

Tetradium velutinum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Tetradium velutinum hardy in the UK?

Tetradium velutinum has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Tetradium velutinum?

Seed, Softwood cuttings, Root cuttings.

More in the Tetradium genus

Browse all Tetradium