Family: Cunoniaceae
Common Name: Red Alder, Butter Knife Bush

Originally from New Caledonia and South Africa, these evergreen shrubs or trees have opposite or whorled leaves, either entire or pinnate, small flowers with four to five sepals and petals, and capsule-shaped fruit.

Species

C. capensis, butter knife bush, from South Africa, is the only species in general cultivation. It is often only a small tree or shrub, to 4 m (13 ft), but can be tree-like and grow 12-15 m (40-50 ft) in ideal conditions. It produces 15 cm (6 in) long, white flower spikes in late autumn. The long, flattish flower buds on long stalks resemble butter knives, hence the common name. Its timber is used commercially.

Cultivation

In areas prone to frosts, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory as a foliage specimen. Best in pots of soil-based potting compost, with maximum light but shaded from direct sun. May need to prune lightly in spring to restrict size. Outdoors grow in a sunny, well-drained position. Propagate from seed in spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer, both with basal warmth.

Climate

Zone 10.