Family: Rubiaceae

There are about 12 species of deciduous, flowering trees or shrubs in this tropical American genus, only a few of which are cultivated. The leaves are rather large, thick and shiny, and the flowers are tubular and fragrant, and ranges in colour from white to scarlet. After it has flowered, it produces large, fleshy berries containing many seeds.

Species

P. latifolia, needle flower tree, from Mexico and South America, grows to about 6 m (20 ft). The elliptical leaves are about 15 cm (6 in) long, the flowers are white and the fruit is yellow and edible but not very tasty. Both flowers and fruit are fragrant.

Cultivation

In climates which are prone to frost, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of gritty, soil-based potting compost. Shade from direct sun and provide moderate humidity. Prune lightly after flowering in order to maintain shape. Outdoors grow in sun or partial shade and well drained, humus-rich soil. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with bottom heat.

Climate

Zone 10.