Lophomyrtus ralphii
Lophomyrtus ralphii · Myrtaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around lophomyrtus ralphii and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen, small dark green leaves, often tinged with purple
- Flowering
- May to June, white or pale pink flowers
- Mature size
- Approximately 1 m in height, compact bushy habit
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Temperate regions, sensitive to intense frost
- Origin
- New Zealand
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly acidic
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability low.
Expert tips
The key tip
Lophomyrtus ralphii wants well-draining soil but not bone-dry; the worst mistake is planting it in clay-heavy ground that gets waterlogged in winter. Pinch back young shoots in spring to build a denser habit.
The common mistake
Planting in damp or poorly drained spots: root rot can strike hard in the depths of winter, catching off guard the gardener who thought they'd bought a sure-fire hardy shrub.
The pro's trick
Give it a light trim every year right after flowering to keep it nice and compact; skip this and it'll quickly become leggy and lose its looks after 5-6 years.
Care
Watering
Keep the soil moist but well-drained, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid excess moisture which promotes root rot. Light mulching helps retain moisture.
Light exposure
Place the lophomyrtle in full sun for optimal flowering and colored foliage. Light partial shade is tolerated but reduces density and flowering. Protect from cold and drying winds.
Pruning and shape
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact silhouette. Remove dead wood or badly oriented branches. Pinch young shoots to encourage dense branching and a bushy habit.
Soil and drainage
Prefer light potting mix enriched with peat or well-decomposed compost. Good drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging. You can add sand or perlite to improve aeration.
Fertilization
Apply balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer from March to September, once or twice monthly. Gradually reduce in autumn to prepare for spring flowering. Prefer gentle organic fertilizer.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites or scale insects in dry environments. Excess moisture promotes fungal diseases; ensure good air circulation and avoid wetting the foliage. Clean regularly with water to prevent infestations.
Did you know?
Ralph's lophomyrtle is endemic to New Zealand, where it is called 'Raoul' in Maori. This bushy shrub was once used by the Maori people for its ornamental and medicinal properties. Its small evergreen foliage and delicate flowering make it highly prized by collectors of South Pacific plants.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.