Description
Dodonaea viscosa, commonly known as Ake Ake, is a versatile and hardy evergreen shrub native to New Zealand
Botanical Characteristics:
- Appearance:
- Dodonaea viscosa is a bright green, bushy shrub that can reach a height of 4 to 6 meters.
- The leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and glossy, ranging in color from green to bronze-red, depending on the variety.
- Flowering and Fruit:
- Inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in late spring to early summer.
- Female plants produce small, papery capsules containing seeds.
- Evergreen
- Adaptability:
- Ake Ake is well-suited to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.
- It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Quite a rapid grower depending on local conditions.
- Moderately hardy except when young. Okay on coastal areas.
Uses in New Zealand Gardens:
- Ornamental Planting:
- Dodonaea viscosa adds year-round visual interest to gardens with its colorful foliage.
- It can be used as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the landscape.
- Does not like heavy poorly drained soils.
- Low Maintenance:
- Dodonaea viscosa is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape.
- It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for gardens with varying moisture levels.
Supplied plants are in 5cm pots and average one year in age.
