About

This compact, slow-growing, evergreen shrub, to 1.5m tall and wide, with elliptic to ovate, glossy, variegated leaves, to 3.5cm long, coloured green with cream and pink margins. Nodding white and pink bell-shaped flowers in summer are followed by edible, aromatic berries.

About the genus

Ugni are densely leafy evergreen shrubs or trees. The small, oval, leathery leaves are arranged in pairs. The cup- or bowl-shaped flowers on young shoots are followed by edible, round berries

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4

Plant details

Plant typeShrubs, Fruit Edible
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower, Fruit

Care notes

CultivationMay be grown outdoors in mild areas where it will tolerate a few degrees of frost if sheltered from cold drying winds. Otherwise grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer with bottom heat
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free