AMOMYRTUS luma

Evergreen - ovate, dark-green leaves 2.5-5cm (1-2in) long.

Cream

Height - 6m (20ft) or more

Spread - 4m (13ft)

Tall Shrub - upright, bushy shrub or multi-stemmed tree. Produces spherical red berries which ripen to black.

Hardy - average winter - Hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F)

Full sun - shelter from cold, drying winds.

Partial shade - light, dappled shade.

Additional Features - Berries - These plants have berries.

Good to know - syn. Myrtus lechleriana, Myrtus luma of gardens. Berries are edible. Thrives in coastal areas with warm summers. Attracts insects.

Pests & Diseases - none.

Place of origin - Chile.

Flower Shape - Racemes - - compact, axillary racemes of 4-10, 1cm (½in) across

Garden Location/Conditions - Coastal / windswept - - in more sheltered site

Hardiness - Frost hardy (down to -5) -

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.

RHS group 1

Scented Plants - Scented flowers -

Scented foliage - strongly aromatic.

Seasonal Interest - Autumn -

Spring

Summer

Winter

Soil Conditions - Fertile well drained soil -

Tree Shape - Broadly columnar -