Plant Guide

lophomyrtus-ralphii-red-dragon

Lophomyrtus x ralphii 'Red Dragon'

Evergreen shrub with small pointed, textured leaves, pinkish red when young, maturing to burgundy red, intensifying to blackish red in winter. White flowers in summer, to 1 cm across, followed by dark red berries. 'Red dragon' is one of several cultivars of Lophomyrtus x ralphii, a hybrid of the New Zealand native species Lophomyrtus bullata (ramarama) and Lophomyrtus obcordata (rohutu).

Prefers a sunny or partially shaded position in any well-drained, fertile soil. Avoid very dry or exposed sites. Tolerates moderate frosts, but may need some frost protection when young. Responds well to clipping.

Brilliant, fine-textured foliage plant. Excellent for hedging purposes. Cut stems are suitable for floral art.

Type of plant

Shrub - Evergreen

Size

1.5-2 m tall, but can be kept smaller with pruning

Landscape Use

foliage colour, hedge, cut stems for floral art

Specifications

  • Temperature: Half hardy
  • Light: Medium High
  • Moisture: Medium
  • Soil: Medium
  • Wind tolerance: Average
  • Coastal tolerance: Average