One of the outstanding winter flowering trees is Luculia grandifolia, we have been growing this small tree for nearly 30 years and it never fails us. Wonderful large white flowers over a long period, from summer through to autumn.
More of a shrub than a tree, reaching around 3m in height, although easily pruned back. Although it is partly or ‘semi deciduous’ we do find it holds its foliage at least partly even in our cool climate garden. In warmer areas it would be almost evergreen.
Care
Although we grow Luculia grandifolia in a cool climate, it is protected from frosts. The foliage does turn to ‘burn’ even in light frost, however it does recover.
Good drainage is also essential, so choose an appropriate position. For us Luculia grandifolia reaches 4 metres, and we have seem it reach 7 meters. The height will depend on the soil, aspect and climate.
Keep well mulched, a cool moist root run and some all purpose fertilizer in spring and again in early summer.
Pruning is easy, they are a tree that can be cut back hard and will respond well, ready to flower the following year..
