About
A spiny evergreen shrub or small tree to 5m tall, with leathery leaves composed of numerous tiny, opposite leaflets. In spring it produces spherical, yellow, pom-pom flowerheads; these are highly perfumed.
About the genus
A genus of flowering trees, shrubs and climbers found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world with divided foliage, spiny at the base, and spherical yellow or creamy-white flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toSouth America
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in pots of loam-based potting compost with added organic matter. Postion in full sun. Water freely while in active growth and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly at other times. Outdoors grow in moist but well-drained, humus-rich soil in a warm and sheltered site. Drought tolerant once established
PruningSee pruning group 11
PropagationPropagate by sowing pre-soaked seed, or by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free