Xylosma senticosum

Description

An elegant, evergreen, large shrub to small tree favoured by many for its suitability as a clipped hedge or informal screen and admired for its attractive, weeping, slightly serrated foliage. The orange and bronze tipped new leaves, that age to a glossy fresh green, are the main feature of the plant. The small, fragrant, yellow flowers are generally inconspicuous. Grows in full sun/part shade and is adaptable to most soil types, providing there is excellent drainage. Withstands coastal conditions in second line position and tolerates heat and cold. May drop leaves in very cold climates but they will re-shoot in Spring. Can be under-pruned and shaped into a small tree, or left to grow as a dense informal shrub with a naturally spreading habit and foliage that is held well to ground level. Clip after flowering to keep tidy and encourage a colourful new foliage flush.

Specifications

Dimensions	Height: 2 to 4m, Width: 2m
Aspect	Full sun
Origin	Southeast Asia and Eastern Pacific
Pests & diseases	Generally clean but watch for Scale and Spider Mite
Typical sizes	200mm, 300mm, 500mm