Maytenus boaria
maiten
M. boaria is an evergreen tree potentially to 20m, but in Britain usually a small tree or large shrub, 3-10m, tall with an oval crown and slender, drooping branches. Leaves are narrowly lance-shaped, 5cm long, shining mid-green above and paler beneath. Flowers greenish-white, small and inconspicuous, numerous, borne in leaf axils in spring and fragrant. May be followed by small, red, 2-seeded fleshy fruits
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Red | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Celastraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Maytenus is a genus of around 200 trees and shrubs, originating from the Americas, but with only a couple of species that are hardy in most of the British Isles. They produce tiny, star-shaped to tubular flowers, singly or in clusters, which may be followed by colourful fruit
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Chile
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun with midday shade. A sheltered position is ideal
Propagation
Propagate by seed under glass in autumn. Remove suckers in spring. Can also be propagted by semi-ripe cuttings with bottom heat in summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Coastal
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Low Maintenance
- Wall side borders
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.