Drimys lanceolata
mountain pepper
- Position: Full sun or partial shade
- Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: Average
- Flowering period: April to May
- Hardiness: Frost hardy (may need winter protection)
Clusters of white flowers on deep red shoots from April to May and lustrous, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. This evergreen shrub or tree is perfect for partially shady areas of a shrub border or woodland garden. Dense and upright in habit, it's best planted among other trees and shrubs to minimise the risk of damage caused by exposure to cold, drying winds.
Remove any dead, diseased or damaged growth in spring. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.
- CAUTION toxic if eaten/skin & eye irritant