Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea'

 

  Purple Hop Seed Bush

  Family: Sapindaceae

  Origin: Wide range includes Arizona

Hardiness: Hardy to 10 degrees; USDA zones 8, 9 and 10, coast and inland
Growth: Rapid growth rate to 15 feet tall
Form: Upright when young, 12 feet wide when full grown; upright stems
Leaves: Narrow 4" long leaves, purplish color in sun and in winter
Flowers: Tiny green flowers in clusters in summer
Seeds: Brown winged (maple-like) capsules follow flowers
Exposure: Likes full sun; tolerates some shade inland
Water: Deep watering monthly; drought resistant
Soil: Well drained; tolerates poor soil
Fertilizer: Spring or fall for rapid growth
Prune: Thin in fall and winter; tolerates shearing
Problems: Few problems; scale possible

Dodonaea is an upright shrub useful for informal hedges and screens. It can also be trained a small patio tree. Hold back water to keep it small. Form with green foliage also available but not as popular.

© 1997 by Jim Clatfelter.         Go to Garden California Home Page

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