GORDONIA axillaris

(Polyspora axillaris) - tenderish except in milder counties. This dense growing shrub with dark green leaves produces large saucer-shaped white flowers which could be mistaken for a camellia
Further Reading....
  • Evergreen
    Elliptic-oblong to inversely lance-shaped, glossy, dark green leaves to 15cm (6in) long
  • White
  • Height
    2m (6½ft) or more
  • Spread
    2m (6½ft) or more
  • Medium shrub
    Typically grow to around 4-6 feet in height
    Bushy shrub.
  • Half hardy - unheated greenhouse / mild winter
    Hardy in coastal and relatively mild parts of the UK except in severe winters and a risk from sudden (early) frosts. May be hardy elsewhere with wall shelter or good micro-climate. Likely to be damaged or killed in cold winters. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -5°C (23°F)
  • Will grow outside in milder locations
    This could include plants which would survive happily in a greenhouse or conservatory if not in a mild location. If you have a sheltered spot in your garden then it may do well here.
  • Full sun
    Shelter from cold, drying winds
  • Partial shade
    Dappled shade

GORDONIA axillaris

 

 

  • Additional Features
    Good to know
    Syn. Polyspora axillaris
    Pests & Diseases
    None
    Place of origin
    China, Vietnam, Taiwan
  • Flower Shape
    Saucer-shaped
    8-13cm (3-5in) across
  • Garden Location/Conditions
    Greenhouse / conservatory
    Not the sort of plants to be grown outside where there are likely to be frosts. These plants need to be grown in a conservatory or cool greenhouse or at least brought inside for the winter
    Use ericaceous (lime-free) compost in bright, filtered light
  • Hardiness
    Frost hardy (down to -5)
  • Leaf margin
    Entire
    (see photos above)
  • Leaf shape
    Elliptic
    (see photos above)
    Oblanceolate
    (see photos above)
    Oblong
    (see photos above)
  • Pruning group
    Pruning group 1
    Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
    Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
    When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.

  • Seasonal Interest
    Autumn
    Spring
    Summer
    Winter
  • Soil Conditions
    Fertile moist well-drained soil
    Neutral to acid soil
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Gordonia axillaris - Growing Guide
2m (6½ft) or more
Medium Shrub - guide for size not form Average Person
  2m (6½ft) or more
 

Useful extras...

Share this page

Twitter Facebook Digg
Visit the Caerhays Castle website
Order the 2024 Burncoose Catalogue
Payment methods accepted
watch us on you tube
Visit Burncoose House - Holiday Accommodation