Drimys lanceolata (Mountain Pepper)
Michael's Opinion
For gardens in mild climates, this is a marvellous species. The creamy yellow-green blossoms have a distinctive scent and in autumn the tree develops fruit which is shiny black. The foliage is notable for the pointy-tipped oval shape of the leaves and the dark green colour that is magnificently juxtaposed against red stems. The level of care required is suitable for a beginner, but this does not diminish the appropriateness of the plant for advanced horticultural purposes.
Botanical Information
| Family | Winteraceae |
| Genus | Drimys |
| Species | lanceolata |
| Category | Woody |
| Type | Shrub (evergreen) |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 7 -10 |
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canadian Hardiness Zone | 6b - 8a |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H3 - H6 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Temperature (°C) | -18 - 2 |
| Temperature (°F) | 0 - 35 |
| Height | 3 - 5 m |
| Spread | 3 m |
| Growth | Slow |
| Flowering Period | April, May |
Description and Growing Information
| Notable Specimens | Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England. Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England. |
Photographs
Drimys lanceolata, form. Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England. 25/10/2019.
Drimys lanceolata, leaf. Wakehurst Place, Ardingly, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England. 25/10/2019.