If you are looking for a winter flowering tree, Luculia gratissima is one with the lot, masses of pink flowers, fragrant and easy to prune. In fact you can cut it back hard if you wish with little worry.
The flowers are magnificent, as winter sets in you can see the flower heads forming, a promise of a great display of pink from mid winter on. Fragrance as well.
However if you are looking for a ‘great foliage plant’ this is not it. The foliage does get a little untidy, we are not concerned, we grow it for the flowers.
Pruning Luculia gratissima
We have been asked how hard it can be pruned, the answer is ‘very hard’. During a home renovation adventure our Luculia gratissima was damaged, we cut it back to almost a stump.
Seven years later it is looking great, and at the time of writing was about to burst into flower again.
Care
Like all Luculias, this one does not like frosts, however in Australia this is not a big problem in many areas. It is a tree that likes a good sheltered position.
Position
Best grown in part shade with protection from frosts and strong winds. Avoid humidity where possible, so good air circulation.
Soil
A humus rich well drained soil. Slightly acidic.
Watering
Once established little extra water will be required if you mulch around the plant well. In dry areas or long dry spells a good soaking once every 2 – 3 weeks should be sufficient if you mulch around the plant.
Fertiliser
A general purpose slow relase organic fertilise rn spring as you renew the mulch.
Pruning Luculia gratissima
We are often asked how hard Luculia gratissima can be pruned, and the answer is simple — very hard.
During a home renovation project our plant suffered significant damage and was cut back to little more than a stump.
Seven years later it had recovered beautifully and was once again covered in flower buds ready for another display.
For routine maintenance, prune immediately after flowering. Removing spent flower heads and shortening long stems will help maintain a dense habit and encourage strong new growth.
If the plant becomes too large or untidy, rejuvenation pruning can be carried out by cutting it back severely. Given suitable growing conditions it usually responds well.
Luculia gratissima Compared to Other Luculia Species
Luculia gratissima
The most widely grown species, valued for its sweetly fragrant pink flowers, reliable flowering and ease of cultivation.
Luculia pinceana
Produces larger flower clusters and often flowers slightly later. The blooms are generally a deeper pink and the plant can develop into a larger shrub.
Luculia grandifolia
A less commonly grown species with larger foliage and attractive flower heads. It is generally considered a little more difficult to find and somewhat less widely grown in Australian gardens.
For most gardeners, Luculia gratissima remains the best choice thanks to its combination of fragrance, flowering performance and adaptability.
Problems and Pests
Luculia gratissima is generally trouble free when grown in suitable conditions.
Possible issues include:
Frost Damage
Young growth can be damaged by heavy frost. Plant in a protected location.
Poor Flowering
Usually caused by excessive shade or over-fertilising with nitrogen-rich products.
Root Rot
Poor drainage can lead to root problems. Avoid waterlogged soils.
Yellowing Leaves
This can occur in alkaline soils where nutrient uptake is reduced. Improving the soil with organic matter often helps.
Landscaping Uses
Luculia gratissima is an excellent plant for:
- Cottage gardens.
- Woodland gardens.
- Fragrant gardens.
- Mixed shrub borders.
- Feature planting near patios and outdoor living areas.
- Screening in sheltered positions.
Its winter flowering season makes it particularly valuable when combined with camellias, daphne, hellebores and other cool-season performers.
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