Melicytus crassifolius
thick-leaved mahoe
A densely twiggy, sometimes spiny, shrub with small, oval ,dark green, leathery leaves. Tiny, yellow flowers are followed by white berries, usually with purple patches, 5mm across on female plants
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow | Green | Purple White | |
| Autumn | Green | Purple White | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
ExposedDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Violaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Melicytus are evergreen or semi-evergreen shrubs with sweetly fragrant leaves. The small male and female flowers are usually borne on separate plants and the females can go on to produce showy berries
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- New Zealand
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a moist, well-drained soil in an open, sunny position, with protection from cold, drying winds. Needs a long, hot summer to flower and fruit well
Propagation
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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