Family: Myrtaceae

Natives of New Zealand, these two species of small, evergreen trees are generally slow grow­ing, reaching only about 6 m (20 ft). Grown for their decorative, leathery foliage, varying in colour from dark green to a coppery shade, they have small, white flowers and dark red berries.

Species

L. bullata, with long, puckered, cop­pery-coloured leaves, tiny white flowers similar to those of the myrtle, and reddish purple berries grows to 6 m (20 ft).

L. x ralphii, gener­ally 2-5 m (6-10 ft) tall, has smaller, greener leaves, small, white flowers in summer, and red berries.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool conservatory in pots of soil-based potting compost. The plants need good light, but shade from direct sun. Outdoors, choose a partially shaded spot with well-drained yet moist, slightly acid soil, with plenty of humus. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Climate

Zone 9.