Dodonaea viscosa
Akeake / Green Akeake
Description:
A hardy New Zealand native shrub or small tree with an upright, bushy habit and attractive long, narrow green foliage. Young growth is characteristically sticky, while mature plants develop flaky reddish-brown bark. Small yellow-green to reddish flowers are followed by distinctive papery, winged seed capsules that provide attractive seasonal interest. Akeake is naturally found from coastal areas through to lowland forest and is particularly valued for its fast growth, resilience and ability to perform in exposed conditions.
Height:
2.4–6 m in cultivation; can reach up to 12 m in natural conditions
Width:
2–4 m
Position:
Full sun is preferred. Well suited to exposed and coastal positions and tolerant of wind and dry conditions once established. It can tolerate some shade but generally develops its best form and foliage in full sun. Frost sensitive, particularly when young.
Soil:
Well-drained soil. Adaptable to a range of soil types and tolerant of relatively poor or dry soils once established. Avoid waterlogged or poorly drained conditions.
Uses:
- Screening and privacy planting
- Informal hedging
- Coastal gardens
- Wind-exposed sites
- Native gardens
- Banks and slopes
- Erosion control
- Revegetation
- Shelter planting
- Low-maintenance landscapes
- Naturalistic planting
- Wildlife-friendly gardens
Care Tips:
- Water regularly while establishing, particularly during extended dry periods.
- Once established, Akeake is relatively tolerant of dry conditions.
- Apply mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from the stem.
- Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser if required.
- Prune lightly to maintain a compact, bushy shape or to control size.
- Regular trimming can encourage branching and produce a denser screen or hedge.
- Allow sufficient room for the plant to develop its natural form.
- Ensure good drainage and avoid persistently wet or waterlogged soils.
- Plant in full sun for the best growth and overall form.
- Protect young plants from heavy frost, particularly in colder areas.
We have made every effort to display as accurately as possible the grade and quality of the plant in the images.
Plants are subject to availability; there is a slight possibility the plants can be sold before your order is processed. In this instance we can offer a refund or credit and let you know when more plants become available.
