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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

Other common names
thick-leaved porcupine plant
Synonyms
Hymenanthera crassifolia
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
Exposed
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H4
Botanical 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

Pruning group 8 or Pruning group 9

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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