Myrsine africana
African Boxwood
Evergreen-Deciduous | Evergreen |
---|---|
Overall Mature Size | Medium |
Mature Height & Spread | 4-8' x 4-5' |
Exposure | Full to Partial Sun |
Water | Medium Water |
Flower Color | Cream |
Bloom Time | Spring |
Special Features | Coastal Conditions, Shade Tolerant |
Container Sizes | #1, #5 |
Natural Growth Habit | Oval |
Sunset Garden Zones | 8, 9, 14-24 |
Minimum USDA Hardiness Zone | 9-11 |
Plant Type | Shrub |
Slow-growing evergreen shrub with an upright rounded growth-habit to 4-8’ tall x 4-5’ wide but can easily be maintained to a smaller size. This sturdy species is revered for its dense-growing glossy dark-green foliage that emerges with an attractive reddish-colored tint. Younger branches also exhibit this coloration. The densely-set aromatic foliage takes well to shearing and is most commonly used in the landscape as a clipped formal hedge. Tiny cream-colored flowers appear in spring but are inconspicuous. Female plants produce small light-purple-colored fruit though production can be inconsistent. Great as a formal hedge or un-pruned as an attractive deep-green backdrop to bright-colored shrubs or perennials. Also does well in containers. Prefers a well-drained soil. Low water needs once established. Full to partial sun.