Searsia lancea

RHS Plant Profile
karee

Other common names

willow rhus

Synonyms

Rhus lancea

Shrubs Trees

A small evergreen tree or shrub up 8m height and spread, with long, weeping tri-foliate leaves. Through the summer, there are clouds of small yellow-green flowers, which on a female plant - if a male is also grown - develop into cream-coloured berries

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed
Hardiness
H6
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Anacardiaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Spreading branched
Genus
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained soil. Tolerates salt spray and drought once established. For more information see tree cultivation.

Propagation

Propagate by softwood cuttings or by sowing seed. For more advice see our information on how to propagate from seed (tree/shrub

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Prairie planting
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1 but lower branches can be cleared to maintain a clear base, or more tree-like form

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to verticillium wilt