Moist Well Drained
- Syzygium ‘Resilience’, a highly psyllid-resistant Lilly Pilly now available in New Zealand, thanks to Black Bridge Nurseries. This exceptional cultivar, originally from Australia, has been specially selected and propagated to combat the damage caused by the troublesome psyllid insect. Like other Lilly Pilly varieties, ‘Resilience’ forms a lush, compact shrub with vibrant mid-green foliage. In spring, its fresh growth flushes red tones, adding seasonal colour and visual interest to the garden. In summer, ‘Resilience’ bursts into bloom with masses of fluffy white flowers, followed by vibrant red berries that attract birds. It’s faster growing than traditional varieties, with a stronger, straighter central leader and a more robust root system. It also performs well in shaded areas, making it a versatile choice for many garden settings. Thriving in moist, well-drained soil, this hardy shrub can reach approximately 7m high by 3m wide but responds well to trimming making it ideal for hedging, screening, and topiary. Syzygium ‘Resilience’ is a standout performer in any landscape. Standards have a clear trunk and are bushy on top. As a group planted together they create a hedge or screen "on stilts" and are called a "pleached hedge".
- Ficus Tuffi is a compact, upright shrub known for its dense growth and vibrant emerald green foliage. Native to Australia, it’s a standout choice for creating smart, formal hedges thanks to its easy-to-trim nature and minimal leaf drop—making it especially ideal around pools. This versatile plant pairs beautifully in layered hedging alongside Buxus or other small shrubs to maintain a polished, structured look. It also lends itself well to topiary work, whether planted directly in the garden or styled in pots for a refined touch. Ficus Tuffi performs best in moist, well-drained soil, flourishes in full sun to partial shade, and is resilient to coastal conditions though not in direct salt spray. Reaching approximately 4 metres tall and 2.5 metres wide, it can also be used as a larger screen. Standards have a clear trunk and are bushy on top. As a group planted together they create a hedge or screen "on stilts" and are called a "pleached hedge".
- Michelia ‘Bubbles’ is an evergreen, compact tree that grows to a small or medium size. Its bushy form is enhanced by large, leathery leaves that begin fresh green and mature to a deep, glossy shade. In spring and summer, strongly scented creamy white flowers appear in abundance. They bloom over a long succession, creating a striking display that adds fragrance and beauty to the garden. This cultivar was developed in Whangarei, New Zealand. It is a hybrid of Michelia figo and Michelia doltsopa, both native to Asia, combining their best qualities into one resilient tree. Michelia ‘Bubbles’ thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers rich, moisture-retentive yet free-draining soil, making it versatile for different garden conditions. Growing to approximately 4 x 2 metres, it is an excellent choice as a specimen tree. Moreover, it works well as a trimmed shelter screen, offering structure and year-round greenery.
- Ilex ‘Largo’ Holly is a slower-growing, upright shrub with dense, bushy form. Its dark green oval leaves, developed in New Zealand, stand out because they have smooth edges, unlike the classic Holly. Moreover, this versatile shrub thrives in moist, well-drained soil and grows happily in full sun or partial shade. It performs beautifully as a border or hedge, and thanks to its compact size, it fits perfectly into smaller gardens. In addition, Ilex ‘Largo’ adapts well to coastal environments and can be shaped into elegant topiary. At maturity, it reaches approximately 3.5m high and 2.5m wide, making it both practical and decorative.
- Cupressus sempervirens 'Totem', commonly known as Totem Cypress, is a tightly upright-growing conifer with striking bluish-green foliage. Notably, these trees are iconic in Italy—especially throughout Tuscany—where they define the landscape and grace Renaissance gardens with timeless elegance. Thanks to their slender, vertical form, Totem Cypresses create bold architectural accents that elevate formal landscapes. Moreover, this cutting-grown cultivar ensures a consistently narrow columnar shape and even growth rate, making it a reliable choice for symmetry and structure. Unlike other varieties, its foliage remains dense and intact, resisting the tendency to “fall out.” Additionally, it offers improved resistance to fungal canker, making it a hardy option for challenging conditions. Often planted in rows as living pillars, it’s ideal for lining entranceways and avenues with a commanding presence. For optimal performance, Totem Cypress prefers drier soil and well-drained sites. Ultimately, it grows to approximately 10 meters tall and 2 meters wide delivering a bold, sculptural impact wherever it’s planted.
- Jacaranda mimosifolia - Jacaranda is a bold, fast-growing tree with a rugged, irregular crown and dynamic branches reaching outward, the Jacaranda instantly commands attention in any landscape. Although it is deciduous in all but the warmest climates, it still offers year-round visual interest thanks to its fine, feathery green foliage. As early summer arrives, its canopy transforms into a striking display, when soft purple blooms blanket the tree in breath taking colour. Not only does it provide beauty, but it also makes an excellent dappled shade tree. Native to south-central South America, this sub-tropical species thrives in sunny locations with moist, well-drained soil but will tolerate dryer once established. Typically, it grows to around 7 meters tall and 5 meters wide, making it a standout feature in gardens or larger landscapes.
- Camellia sasanqua ‘Paradise Helen’ is a moderately fast-growing upright shrub. In autumn and continuing into winter, it showcases masses of pink buds that open into dazzling double white flowers with bright yellow stamens, creating a striking seasonal display. In addition to its blooms, the shrub features dense, glossy green foliage. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for hedging at various heights. It responds well to trimming and, alternatively, can be grown as a bold standalone specimen. ‘Paradise Helen’ is an Australian-bred cultivar of the Camellia sasanqua species, which is native to China and Japan. It was developed by Paradise Plants, highlighting its strong ornamental appeal and adaptability. For best results, plant in full sun or dappled shade in moist, well-drained acidic soil. Furthermore, pruning after flowering encourages bushier, more compact growth. Typically, this variety reaches about 2.5m tall by 2.0m wide, yet it can grow larger to form an effective screen
- Olea europaea ‘El Greco’ – Greek Olive is a compact evergreen olive known for its small green leaves and dense, tidy habit. Often used as a hedging olive, it may produce some fruit if left untrimmed, although this is not typical. This variety prefers moist, well‑drained soil but tolerates dry periods once established. Since it originates from the Mediterranean, it thrives in full sun and copes well with wind and coastal conditions. Because of its naturally dense, bushy form, ‘El Greco’ easily trims into neat low or tall hedges, making it ideal for smaller gardens. It grows to approximately 3 × 2 metres.
- Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' is a small, deciduous tree with an open, spreading habit that gradually matures into a broad, rounded crown. In early spring, masses of small magenta, pea-like flowers burst into bloom on bare branches, creating a striking display before the foliage emerges. Soon after flowering, rich purple-red, heart-shaped leaves appear, adding depth and colour to the garden. As autumn approaches, these leaves transition into warm tones of orange and bronze, offering a final flourish before winter. Because of its compact size reaching approximately 3.5 x 3.0 metres, ‘Forest Pansy’ is an excellent feature tree for smaller gardens or courtyards. It responds well to pruning, making it easy to maintain a tidy shape. Additionally, it tolerates clay soils, although wet or poorly drained conditions should be avoided. For best results, plant in a more sheltered position to protect its delicate foliage. Interestingly, this tree originates from North America, and its Latin name canadensis fittingly means “of Canada” or “from Canada.” Whether you're designing a colourful garden or seeking a low-maintenance ornamental tree, ‘Forest Pansy’ delivers beauty across all seasons.
- 3.5 x 3.0m
- Small 1-5m
- Moderate - Fast
- Tree
- Round-Spreading
- Deciduous
- North America
- Prunus Thundercloud, Fagus Riversii, Fagus Sylv Purp, Acer Tamukeyama, Fraxinus Raywoodii, Acer Bloodgood.
- Purple-Red
- Oranges and Bronze
- Magenta
- No
- Moist well drained, Tolerates Clay
- Prefers Sheltered
- Small gardens, Courtyards
- Melia azedarach – Indian Bead Tree is a round-headed deciduous tree with glossy, compound green leaves. In spring, it produces scented pale lilac flowers. Later, during autumn, loose clusters of smooth oval berries appear, turning from green to bright yellow in winter. Not to be eaten. Tthe tree adapts well to a wide range of soils, provided they are well drained to prevent root rot. It grows best in full sun. Moreover, pruning helps open the crown and encourages the development of well-spaced limbs. Thanks to its dense leaf covering, it is ideal as a lawn specimen or shade tree. This hardy tree withstands frost, wind, and occasional dry periods. Finally, it reaches approximately 7m tall and 5m wide, making it a striking addition to any landscape.
- Pittosporum eugenioides – Lemonwood, also known as Tatara, is a moderately fast-growing evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It naturally forms a bushy, pyramidal shape, making it a striking addition to any landscape. Its large green leaves release a refreshing lemon scent when crushed. In spring, clusters of small white-cream flowers bloom with a fragrant aroma. These are followed by black seed capsules that attract native and seed-loving birds. This tree thrives in full sun and prefers free-draining soil. Once established, it tolerates moderately windy conditions. Ideal for medium sized hedging or larger screening, Lemonwood responds beautifully to trimming. It typically grows to around 6 metres tall and 4 metres wide, offering both height and density.
- Meryta sinclairii – Puka is a smaller evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its upright, spreading branches hold huge, tropical-looking leaves that shine deep green. These handsome leaves can reach up to 50cm long and 20cm wide, creating a bold and lush display. From August to April, Puka produces inconspicuous white-green flowers. Shiny black fruits follow and remain year-round, attracting foraging birds anfd adding interest and contrast to the foliage. This tree thrives in warm, frost-free climates with moist, fertile, and well-drained soil. Moreover, it is highly tolerant of wind and salt, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens. Growing to approximately 5 x 3 metres, Puka works beautifully as a stand-alone specimen. It also serves well as a filler at the back of a garden, providing structure and tropical appeal.
- Tristaniopsis laurina – Kanooka or Water Gum is a medium-sized evergreen tree with a rounded, compact form. Its dark, glossy green leaves provide year-round appeal, making it a striking feature in any landscape. Native to Australia, this tree produces clusters of small, fragrant yellow flowers during summer. These blooms not only enhance its beauty but also attract pollinators, bringing extra life and movement to your garden. Kanooka Water Gum tolerates clay soils, yet it performs best in moist, well-drained conditions. For optimal growth and colour, plant it in full sun while avoiding sites that are overly wet or dry. Versatile and adaptable, it suits street planting, lawn specimens, and smaller gardens where shade is desired. Typically reaching 7 metres tall and 4 metres wide, it can also be pruned to maintain a neat, compact shape.
- Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as NZ Kowhai, is a graceful, arching evergreen native tree. It grows slightly larger than its close relative, Sophora microphylla, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more prominent garden feature. Notably, its dark green pinnate leaves are larger—ranging from 8 to 16 cm—and unlike microphylla, it does not exhibit tangled juvenile growth. In early spring, this tree bursts into golden yellow blooms arranged in racemes of 4 to 10 flowers, which appear earlier than those of microphylla. As a result, it creates a more open and airy visual impact. When in full bloom, NZ Kowhai is truly spectacular. Moreover, it attracts Tui and other nectar-loving birds, adding vibrant life to your garden. Ideally, it prefers a sheltered position with moist, well-drained soil. Ultimately, it grows to approximately 7 x 4 meters, making it a perfect feature tree for smaller gardens.
- 7 x 4m
- Medium 5-10m
- Moderate
- Tree
- Spreading
- Deciduous
- New Zealand/div>
- Sophora Microphylla, Sophora Chathamica
- Green
- Yellow
- No
- Moist well drained
- Prefers a sheltered position
- Small garden, Shade Tree, Feature, Bird Feeding
- Prunus lusitanica - Portuguese Laurel, is a versatile evergreen shrub or small tree with dark, glossy green oval leaves. Native to Western Europe, including regions of France, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, it brings both structure and elegance to garden landscapes. In late spring to summer, it produces white flowers with a subtle hawthorn-like scent, arranged in long, slender racemes. These are soon followed by small fruits, adding further seasonal interest. Moreover, this plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils, though it will not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Therefore, it’s best planted in a sunny, sheltered position to ensure healthy growth. Thanks to its dense foliage and upright habit, Portuguese Laurel is excellent for trimming into formal hedges or shaping into a clipped screen. Additionally, it can be trained as a pleached hedge or sculpted into topiary forms, offering flexibility for both traditional and contemporary garden designs. Typically growing to approximately 5 x 4 metres, it makes a bold yet refined statement in any outdoor space. The name lusitanica refers to Lusitania, the ancient Roman name for Portugal, highlighting its rich heritage.
- Podocarpus totara ‘Matapouri Blue’ – Blue Totara is a distinctive New Zealand native Totara with a more upright, open pyramidal form. Its striking blue-grey, needle-like foliage adds unique colour and texture to any landscape. This slow-growing evergreen prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It’s hardy and adaptable, making it suitable for a range of garden styles and conditions. Ideal as a specimen tree, it can also be trimmed into a hedge or left to grow as a natural screen. Its elegant structure offers year-round interest. In optimal conditions, Blue Totara can reach approximately 7 x 5 metres at maturity.
- Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is a smaller evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It forms a rounded shape with smooth, dark green, pointed leathery leaves, creating an attractive and compact appearance. This variety is highly useful for hedging and screening. Small purple flowers, lightly scented and most fragrant in the quiet of early morning or evening, produce seed that attracts small feeding birds. Originating from a windy island in the Cook Strait, it is well-suited to exposed coastal gardens. Moreover, it can withstand salt spray and thrives in moist, well-drained soils. Growing to approximately 4 x 2 metres, Pittosporum ‘Stephen’s Island’ makes an excellent smaller hedge. When kept trimmed, it maintains bushiness and provides year-round structure and greenery.
- Ficus hillii – Hills Weeping Fig is a medium-sized evergreen tree native to Australia. Its lush lime green leaves and drooping branches create a soft, tropical feel, perfect for adding greenery to compact garden spaces. Thriving in full sun, it prefers moist, well-drained soil and adapts well to a variety of planting styles. It’s ideal for small gardens, either as a hedge or trimmed into a larger screen. This versatile fig is also suitable for pleached hedges and can be trained as a standard in your favourite pot for a formal look. Typically, it grows to around 6 metres tall and 3 metres wide, making it a practical and attractive choice for structured planting.
- Prunus serrulata ‘Shimidsu Sakura’ – Moonlight Cherry, is a stunning Japanese flowering cherry tree. This small deciduous tree features a spreading habit with graceful, arching branches Over summer, the foliage is a vibrant green, gradually shifting to yellow and orange hues in autumn, adding seasonal colour and interest. In late spring, buds emerge in soft pink tones, opening into double flowers that begin as pale pink and fade to pure snow white—a breath taking display that enhances any garden. Shimidsu sakura thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a sheltered, sunny position. Because of its elegant form and manageable size, it serves beautifully as a feature specimen in smaller landscapes. Typically growing to approximately 4 x 4 metres, Moonlight Cherry is both ornamental and easy to maintain. The name Shimidsu-sakura refers to the specific cultivar, where sakura means cherry blossom in Japanese, and Shimidsu is the cultivar name itself.
- Olea europaea ‘Ascolano’ is a rounded, moderately fast-growing evergreen with a bushy habit. It features silvery-green, leathery leaves and strong, rigid branches. This variety is well known for producing large, mild table olives, making it both ornamental and productive. Ascolano is suitable for hedging or screening and can also be left to grow as a specimen tree. When mature, it reaches approximately 6 x 3 metres, offering structure and beauty in the landscape. Originating from the Marche and Tuscany regions of Italy, Ascolano thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates wind, coastal conditions, and dry spells, making it a hardy and versatile choice for gardens.
