Dodonaea viscosa
Dodonaea are referred to the ‘Hop Bush’ due to their fruits that look like ‘Hops’. Dodonaea viscosa will grow to 8m, most other species are small to medium shrubs.
Care
Dodenaea are generally a tough plant, easy to grow and with attractive foliage and colorful fruit can make be a useful garden plant. One of the biggest problems is to much fertilizer, in fact theu require none at all.
Another issue is with mulching, Dodonaea seem to be particularly susceptible to ‘collar rot’, so keep mulch away from the base of the plants. Another issue is that not all Dodonaea viscosa are from Australia, some originate from New Zealand and these varieties seem to have problems in terms of longevity.
Plants can be tip pruned from an early age to promote a bushy habit.
Other species
- Dodonaea triquetra has either dark purple fruits or green fruits depending on variety.
- Dodonaea viscosa cv. purpurea or ‘sticky hop bush’ is found in many nurseries its purple leaves are a feature.
Summary
- Natural Habitat – Full sun, well drained soil.
- Height – Variable height from 3 -5m depending on soil and conditions.
- Foliage – Spoon shaped, Green or Red flushed with green depending on variety
- Flower – Flowers inconspicuous, followed by small fruit.
- Flowering Period – Spring
- Conditions – Well drained soil..
- Landscaping Uses – Can be used as a border plant or as a low screen.
- Propagation – From seed or from cuttings
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Dodonea are available for sale from the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au