Appearance & key features Evergreen shrub with dense, glossy green foliage and vivid red young leaves that mature to deep green. Compact, bushy growth makes it a popular choice for screening.
Growing conditions: Best in full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Water well while establishing and avoid prolonged waterlogging.
Mature height & spread: Typically around 4–5m high and 2–3m wide if left untrimmed. Regular pruning keeps it at a useful hedge height and width.
Seasonal interest: Fresh red growth is most prominent in spring and often again after trimming, with small white flowers in late spring followed by red berries that darken with age.
Ideal planting locations: Excellent for evergreen hedges, privacy screening, boundaries, mixed borders and pleached screens. Suitable for many urban and suburban gardens.
Maintenance: Low to moderate maintenance. Prune in late spring or summer to shape and encourage colourful new growth. Mulch and water during dry spells while young.
Wildlife benefits: Flowers provide nectar for pollinating insects and the berries can be used by garden birds.
Landscaping uses: Dense hedges, privacy screens, boundary planting, feature shrubs, formal planting and pleached screening.
