Griselinia littoralis

A native, evergreen tree that naturally grows to 10-20m. However, it can be pruned to maintain a short shrub or hedge habit (4 - 8m high and 2.5 - 4m wide).

The oval leaves are leathery glossy and lush bright green. This plant produces small cream insignificant flowers and is primarily grown from its dense foliage. Plants left to get large have rough dark trunks. In the autumn the female trees have small purple-black fruit.

Grows in a range of soil types but prefers well drained soil in full sun. Can tolerate frost and wind.

Always choose healthy, well-grown plants. Plant after autumn rains when the soil is moist and warm, allowing trees and shrubs to become established before winter. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and forming raised beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark and compost to improve soil structure. Before planting, ensure that the root ball is saturated and remove planter pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Long term, slow-release fertilisers may be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole, tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root ball. Water thoroughly, making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root ball.

When planting a hedge, use small to medium plants of an even grade. You may need to order these ahead of time. Invest time in soil preparation and your reward will be faster, healthier growth. Mark out the line of the hedge and dig the soil over to at least a spades depth, adding compost and slow-release fertiliser. Space plants 70 to 100cm apart for tall hedges. Planting a double staggered row of plants will create a denser screen. Another tip is to plant at an angle to induce more lateral growth, which will also have a similar effect. Keep your newly planted hedge deeply watered. It can be grown at any height and is excellent in coastal gardens, but intolerant of prolonged wet feet. Best pruned with secateurs.

Apply mulch annually to suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic material, such as sawdust and bark, contribute to soil structure. However, make sure to keep mulch away from plant stems. The first summer and autumn after planting are critical for young plants, so water thoroughly during dry periods. A light application (50g/m2) of general-purpose fertiliser in spring is beneficial. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil, taking care not to damage the delicate roots.

For hedge plants, prune in their first year to ensure even, dense growth. Hedges planted in autumn should be cut back by half during late spring and then trimmed again lightly in late summer. During the second winter (or in early spring), trim moderately to remove half the previous season's growth. Avoid heavy pruning in autumn, as this promotes soft new growth more susceptible to frost damage. Best pruned with secateurs at first and then, once a proper hedge shape is established, pruned with shears or a hedge trimmer. Ideally, hedges should be shaped so they are narrower at the top than the base. This allows more light to reach the hedge sides and prevents it from becoming top heavy and unstable.

Berries are eaten by tui and tiny flowers attract pollinators.
The tiny green and yellow flowers are a good source of pollen for bees in the spring.

Relatively pest and disease free but may be affected by a leaf spot.

Rose Garden

Where does it grow?
Common nearly everywhere in New Zealand from sea level to 1000 metres, Griselinia is not, however, found naturally north of the Bay of Islands. It is particularly abundant in the South Island, where it often starts life as an epiphyte, growing on old fallen logs. It can grow in a wide range of soil types and situations and is particularly tolerant of frost and persistent wind. It will not grow so well on very infertile soils, or in prolonged drought conditions. It is useful in coastal situations (littoralis means shore growing ), and can withstand heavy pruning.