What is Phillyrea?

Phillyrea is a family of only two species of evergreen shrubs or small trees that belong to the olive family. These fragrant, flowering plants, p. Latifolia and p. Similarly, they resemble an olive tree, with leaves that grow against each other on branches and clusters of white flowers in the spring.

Phillyrea latifolia is commonly known as a false privet or Green Olive Tree. It has wide, glossy dark green leaves and small white flowers in summer. This slow -growing tree can grow quite high and reach up to 26 feet (8 m) and has a large branch when it is mature. However, it is often kept cut to a smaller size and is used as a living or endowment plant.

Phillyrea angustifolia is often referred to as false olive and is less than p. Latifolia , growing to just 8 feet tall (2.4 m). The narrow sheets of these large shrubs have a whitish tinge in spring,But as they mature, turn dark green. In summer there are clusters of very small white flowers with black fruit similar to olive olive.

Both types of Phillyrea prefer light and sandy alkaline soil, but also tolerate heavy clay soil. They will grow in areas with partial sunlight, but will be the best in full sun. These shrubs are drought resistant and require little water after being established. While the Phillyrea trees are quite hardy as soon as they are based on their permanent place, they will not survive the extreme cold. At the end of autumn, a strong mulch should be applied to help them survive low temperatures.

can be easily spread from fresh seed and should be sown at the end of autumn or early winter. After germination, the seedlings should be kept connected and in a sunny window up to Spring. Seedlings should remain in pots and hibernated inside PRight year. They will also be rooted from semi -shaped cuttings, although frequent fog is required. In addition, Phillyrea slowly grows and may take several months to create roots, so that patience is required to spread.

These evergreen trees can be paired with many other small trees and bushes to create an interesting and engaging landscape. Magnolia, Holly trees, ornamental cherries and Arbutus are just a few that complement them well and create a contrasting color palette. They can be planted with evergreen perennial, such as Ajuga, creeping phlox or Irish moss to add green color to otherwise tired winter scenery.