Description
Griselinia littoralis variegata
Griselinia littoralis variegata is a true evergreen plant originating from New Zealand where it is known as New Zealand Broadleaf or, in Maori as Kapuka. It has glossy, apple green leaves, tiny yellow flowers in spring and, subject to pruning, purple fruit in autumn. The plants make a dense and bushy garden hedge and are generally kept to a height of 2m or lower. However, if you want something taller, it will reach 6m. Griselinia will thrive on most soils but prefers less exposed sites.
Griselinia littoralis ‘Variegata’ AGM shares many of the attributes of its standard sibling: hardy, unfussy, easy-to-maintain, salt-tolerant and versatile. It also has several of its own, not least the highly attractive variegated foliage. The white margins (golden in young leaves) are irregular and give the plant a bright, care-free and informal look. Each glossy, ovate leaf can reach 10cm. Upright yet still bushy, Griselinia littoralis ‘Variegata’ is more manageable as it won’t grow much above that 6’ optimum hedge height. The only word of caution is that it can succumb to extreme frosts so don’t plant in a frost pocket and make sure it has some protection during its first winter. Other than that, Griselinia littoralis ‘Variegata’ makes a bright, breezy and effective screen or hedge.
Griselinia Littoralis Variegata At-A-Glance
Foliage Type: Evergreen
Flower: None
Scent: None
Hardiness: ✯✯✯
Ease of maintenance: ✯✯✯✯✯
Drought Resistance: ✯✯✯✯✯
Versatility: ✯✯✯✯✯
Soil type: Fertile and light; loam, sand or chalk
Soil pH: Acid, neutral or alkaline
Wet/Dry: Acid, neutral or alkaline
Preferred situation: South or East-facing in sun or shade. Protect against cold, drying winds and severe frost.
Height: 1.5m-2.5m
Width: 1.5m-2.5m
Growth Rate: Medium
