Family: Flacourtiaceae

There are about 100 species of evergreen trees and shrubs in this genus, with a wide distribu­tion through tropical and subtropical regions. Many originate in tropical America, but species also occur in Polynesia, New Caledonia, China, Japan and other parts of Southeast Asia. These plants are dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate trees. In suitable climates, they are grown as screening and hedging plants, but in frost-prone climates, they need to be grown in a cool to intermediate greenhouse.

Species

X. congestum, a small tree or shrub native to China, is about 5 m (16 ft) high, with shiny, oval, dark green leaves, with slightly ser­rated margins. Young growth is reddish. Flowers are small and insignificant. If both male and female trees are present, small, black berries will develop on the female trees.

Cultivation

Best grown in full sun, these plants will tolerate partial shade. They prefer a humus-rich soil that drains well. They need ample moisture in summer, but can be kept much drier in winter. Little pruning is required, except for regular tip pruning for hedges or screens. Under glass, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost, in good light. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, with bottom heat.

Climate

Zone 9.