Header photographs shows a Monarch butterfly on Euryops
SOME EXOTIC FLOWERING SHRUBS THAT THRIVE IN WHANGAREI & FURTHER NORTH -
ABUTALON
Abutilon X hybridum: Chinese Lantern - Parlour Maple.
BOTANICAL NAME: Abutilon × hybridum is a species name used for a wide variety of Abutilon of uncertain origin. Photographed is the yellow flowered A X hybridum'laetum', growing in Laurie Hall Park, Whangarei. It belongs to the plant family Malvaceae.
The A. X hybridum group are cultigens, not occurring in the wild. As with the larger Abutilon genus generally, they have been referred to by the common names Chinese lantern and parlour maple, due to the foliage form.
The A. X hybridum group are cultigens, not occurring in the wild. As with the larger Abutilon genus generally, they have been referred to by the common names Chinese lantern and parlour maple, due to the foliage form.
AZALEA
Azalea varieties - A range of flowering shrubs comprising two of the eight subgenera of the genus Rhododendron: the evergreen and the deciduous. Azalea flowers range from white through pink to red, often lasting for several weeks. They prefer shade, living near or under trees. Photographs were taken in the Raumanga Reserve and Tarewa Park.
BRUNFELSIA
Brunfelsia australis: Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow - Kiss Me Quick.
BOTANICAL NAME: Brunfelsia australis. Common Name, Yesterday, Today And Tomorrow. & Kiss Me Quick. Brunfelsia is a genus of flowering plants in the Solanum or potato family, Solanaseae. There are about 50 species of this genus, which was named after the early German herbalist Otto Brunfels (1488–1534). Species in cultivation include Brunfelsia americana and Brunfelsia pauciflora. Brunfelsia australis is actively promoted by growers for its tricolored blooms and drought resistance. Like many species of this genus, it contains toxic and medicinal alkaloids. The plants are known to be poisonous to domestic animals such as cats, dogs, and horses. Flowers open purple, then fade through mauve to white, with all three colours appearing on the bush at the one time. B. Americana, from the West Indies, opens white and fades to pale yellow. B. australis needs warm temperatures, so is particularly suited to Northland, Photographs taken in Whangarei.
CAMELIA - See Hedges Section).
CESTRUM See Hedges Section.
CHOISYA.
Choisya ternata: Mexican Orange Blossom - Mock Orange.
BOTANICAL NAME: Choisya ternata - Common name is Mexican Orange Blossim or Mock Orange. Choisya is a small genus
of aromatic evergreen shrubs in the Rutaceae. Flowers closely resemble that of their related species in the citrus family, both in shape and strong citrus scent, hence the name Mock Orange. They are native to southern North America, from Arizona through to most of Mexico. Grows very well in Whangarei, indeed in the whole of Northland. Photographs taken in Cafler Park.
CISTUS.
Cistus albidus: Rock Rose.
BOTANICAL NAME: Cistus albidus: Common Name - Rock Rose. One of 20 species in the genus of flowering plants from the family Cistaceae. They are found on dry or rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean area, from Morocco and Portugal through to the Middle East, and also on the Canary Islands. This group of evergreen shrubs have opposite leaves, simple, usually slightly rough-surfaced, 2–8 cm long, and coated with a highly aromatic resin called labdanum. They have showy 5-petaled flowers ranging from white to purple and dark pink. C. albifus is white flowered. A few species have a conspicuous dark red spot at the base of each petal. There are many hybrids and cultivars that have been bread as a garden flower. The species grows very well in the Northland climate. These photographs were taken in the Subtropical Quarry Gardens in Whangarei.
COLEONEMA
Coleonema pulchellum: Breath Of Heaven - Diosma.
BOTANICAL NAME: Coleonema pulchellum (Syn. C. pulcrum), commonly known as pink breath of heaven. Family Rutaceae. Sometimes called Diosma. It is a shrub which is endemic to South Africa. It grows to between 0.8 and 1 metre high. Single pink flowers to about 8 mm in diameter appear August to December in Northland.
The species was formally described in 1981 in the Journal of South African Botany. Prior to this, plants in cultivation had been erroneously identified as Coleonema pulchrum. Coleonema has been widely cultivated and hybridises, and is available in a range of colours from white through yellow, to red.
The species was formally described in 1981 in the Journal of South African Botany. Prior to this, plants in cultivation had been erroneously identified as Coleonema pulchrum. Coleonema has been widely cultivated and hybridises, and is available in a range of colours from white through yellow, to red.
Coleomema alba: White Breath Of Heaven.
BOTANICAL NAME: Coleomema alba (Sy, Diosma ericoides - D. alba): Common Name White Breath Of Heaven. Coleonema is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae. The eight known species are all from the western Cape Province of South Africa. In Australia, where they are cultivated as garden ornamentals, they are often incorrectly referred to as Diosma. This light wispy evergreen shrub has many branches that are densely covered with small pointed foliage, broader than that of Coleonema pulchrum but just as fragrant. Starry white flowers bloom at branch ends from winter to spring with scattered bloom throughout the year. Grows well in sin for better flowering.
CONVOLVULUS.
Convolvulus cneorum: Silverbush.
BOTANICAL NAME: Convolvulus cneorum. Common Name - Silverbush. A species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae, a plant family which contains many plants described as "bindweed". However, unlike other species in the genus, it is an evergreen shrub, not a vine, forming a low mound 0.6–1.2 m (2 ft 0 in–3 ft 11 in) in height, with a similar spread. It produces 2.5–4 cm (1–2 in) diameter flowers which are white with a yellow throat. These are produced at the end of stems in loose panicles and may almost completely cover the plants. The leaves are grey-green and are covered in fine hairs which give the plant a silvery appearance. In nature C. cneorum is found in coastal areas of Spain, Italy, Croatia and Albania. In Italy it is found on the coast of Tuscany and western Sicily and on the islands of Capri and Li Galli. In Croatia it is found on many of the islands off the coast and is often found growing in cracks in rocks.
BOTANICAL NAME: Convolvulus sabatius. Common Name, Blue Rock Bindweed (See picture above). A species of flowering plant in the family Convolvulaceae, native to Italy and North Africa, and often seen in cultivation in Northland. It is a woody-stemmed trailing perennial plant, growing to 20 cm in height. It has slightly hairy leaves and light blue to violet flowers, often with a lighter centre, which are 2.5–5 cm in diameter. This species is often sold under the synonymous name C. mauritanicus. A perennial, it is treated as an annual south of Auckland. It is suited to window boxes and containers and prefers a sunny situation with good drainage. Tip pruning encourages new growth and flowering.
CORREA.
Correa pulchella. Australian Fuchsia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Correa pulchella: Common Name: Australian fuchsia. A species of Australian flowering plant in the family Rutaceae. It is small evergreen shrub, endemic to South Australia, where in 1967, an Orange flowered form was found by an expesitionto the atom bomb sites of Emu and Maralinga. Specimens were taken back to the Adelaide Botanic Garden for propagation. It grows to 0.3–1 m (1 ft 0 in–3 ft 3 in) in height and 1–2 m (3 ft 3 in–6 ft 7 in) in width. The leaves are oblong to broadly ovate. The flowers are tubular (see photographs taken in Whangarei), and appear between April and September in the species' native range. The two photographs were taken in April, in a private garden in The Avenues. Colours are pink-red, orange, or white, and have yellow anthers. Correa pulchella is regarded as one of the most attractive Correa species. It prefers dry summers with low humidity and well-drained alkaline soils. Stem cuttings strike readily. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
CUPHEA.
Cuphea micropetala: Cigar Plant or Firecracker Plant.
BOTANICAL NAME: Cuphea micropetala: Common Name - The Cigar Plant or Cigar flower. A species of the genus Cuphea which is a member of the plant family Lythraceae. A larger growing species to C. ignea, which is low growing and commonly called the Cigarette Bush. Photographs taken in Central Avenue, Whangarei, NZ.
Cuphea ignea: Gigarette bush or cigar plant or Firecracker Plant.
BOTANICAL NAME: Cuphea ignea: Common Names - Cigarette plant, firecracker plant. or Mexican cigar. A more common species of Cuphea from the family Lythraceae. It is a tropical, densely-branched evergreen ground plant, which is native to Mexico and the West Indies. It produces small, tubular, bright red to orange flowers, each tipped with a thin, white rim and two small purple-black petals. The flower is said to resemble a cigarrette, hence the name. The leaves are small, bright green in colour. It grows to about 60 cm (24 in). The name ignea comes from the Latin for fire.
OTHER IMAGES OF CUPHEA.
ECHIUM.
Echium candicans: Tower Of Jewels -Snake's Head - Pride Of Madeira. Woody, perennial, shrub-like appearance, with attractive, long pointed foliage. Flowers are in panicles (se photograph), dozens of small, blue, bell-shaped blooms appearing in spring. Tolerates light frost, but is very suited to the Northland climate. A native of the Canary Islands.
ERICA.
Erica species: Heath - Heather.
BOTANICAL NAME: Erica species: Common Name - Heath or Heather. A genus of approximately 860 species of flowering plants belonging to the family Ericaceae. Widely cultivated, the cultivars range from ground cover or tock garden types, to tall upright species, such as E. canaliculata. In the wild they are most commonly known as the heather of Scotland, however, most of the species are small shrubs from 20–150 cm (8–59 in) high, though some are taller; the tallest are E. arborea (Tree Heath) and E. scoparia (Besom Heath), both of which can reach up to 7 m (23 ft) tall. All are evergreen, with minute needle-like leaves 2–15 mm long. Flowers are sometimes axillary, and sometimes borne in terminal umbels or spikes, and are usually outward or downward facing. The seeds are very small, and in some species may persist in the soil for decades.
EUPHORBIA.
Euphorbia pulcherrima: Poinsettia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Euphorbia pulcherrima . Common Name, Poinsettia. A culturally and commercially important plant species of the family Euphorbiaceae. It is indigenous to Mexico and Central America. It is particularly well known for its red and green foliage and is widely used in Christmas floral displays. It is grown commercially in pots, but grows well outdoors from Auckland, North. E. pulcherrima is a shrub or small tree, typically reaching a height of 0.6–4 metres (2 ft 0 in–13 ft 1 in). The plant bears dark green dentate leaves that measure 7–16 centimetres (2.8–6.3 in) in length. The so-salled 'Flowers' are actually leaf bracts, which can be red, orange, pale green, cream, pink, white or marbled. The colours of the bracts are created through a process called photoperiodism, meaning that they require darkness for 12 hours at a time, 5 days in a row to change colour. At the same time, the plants require abundant light during the day for the brightest colour. The flowers of the poinsettia are unassuming and do not attract pollinators. They are grouped within small yellow structures found in the center of each leaf bunch, and are called cyathia. There are over 100 cultivated varieties of poinsettia. Outdoor shrubs should be pruned after flowering to prevent dieback.
Euphorbia milii: Crown Of Thorns - Christ Plant - Christ Thorn.
BOTANICAL NAME: Euphorbia milii: Common Name - Crown of Thorns, Christ Plant, Christ Thorn. A species of flowering plant in the family Euphorbiaciae. It is a native of Madagascar. It is reputed to be the species that was used to form Christ's Crown of Thorns, and was introduced to the Middle East in ancient times. Photographs taken in the Subtropical Quarry Gardens, Whangarei.
Euphorbia characias - Mediterranean Spurge - A species of flowering plant in the Euphorbiaceae family typical of the Mediterranean vegetation. It is an upright, compact evergreen shrub growing to 1.2 m (3 ft 11 in) tall and wide, with many woolly stems. It is a tough plant, capable of resisting long periods of drought. It grows preferably in dry areas, and can also resist high salinity. Two main subspecies are found in different regions of the Mediterranean Basin. These often overlap in the western areas of distribution: Main species grown in Northland are E. characias subsp. characias , from Portugal to Crete, and E. characias subsp. wulfenii which comes from Southern France to Anatolia, and a variegated garden cultivar. Other garden cultivars come in a variety of colors, from silvery grey and bluish green to greenish yellow.
Euphorbia characias wulfenii variegata.
EURYOPS
Euryops pectinatus :
BOTANICAL NAME : Euryops pectinatus is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is a narive of South Africa. A vigorous evergreen shrub growing to 1 m (3 ft 3 in) tall and wide,
with silvery green leaves and yellow, daisy-like composite flowers, 5 cm (2 in) in diameter, on
long stems, from early summer through to autumn and into winter i in Whangarei.
E. pectinatus is a popular garden plant in Northland as it is well suited to the warm climate and has a long flowering period. It is hardy and grows best in full sun and well-drained deep soils. It may be grown as a border plant or container plant. It has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
with silvery green leaves and yellow, daisy-like composite flowers, 5 cm (2 in) in diameter, on
long stems, from early summer through to autumn and into winter i in Whangarei.
E. pectinatus is a popular garden plant in Northland as it is well suited to the warm climate and has a long flowering period. It is hardy and grows best in full sun and well-drained deep soils. It may be grown as a border plant or container plant. It has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Monarch Butterfly: Milkweed or Swan Plant Butterfly
The scientific name of the monarch butterfly is Danaus plexippus. it is a milkweed butterfly in the subfamily Danainae, of the family Nymphalidae. It is perhaps the best known of all North American butterflies. Since the 19th century, it has been found
in New Zealand, and in Australia since 1871, where it is called the wanderer butterfly. Its
wings feature an easily recognizable orange and black pattern, with a wingspan of 8.9–10.2 cm (3½ to 4 inches.Female monarchs have darker veins on their wings, and the males have a spot called the androconium in the center of each hind wing. Males are also slightly larger than female monarchs.
These photographs of the Eureops and Monarch Butterfly were taken in May in a Whangarei garden in The Avenues.
in New Zealand, and in Australia since 1871, where it is called the wanderer butterfly. Its
wings feature an easily recognizable orange and black pattern, with a wingspan of 8.9–10.2 cm (3½ to 4 inches.Female monarchs have darker veins on their wings, and the males have a spot called the androconium in the center of each hind wing. Males are also slightly larger than female monarchs.
These photographs of the Eureops and Monarch Butterfly were taken in May in a Whangarei garden in The Avenues.
FELICIA.
Felicia amelloides: Blue Marguerite - Blue Daisy.
BOTANICAL NAME: Felecia amelloides. Common Name, Blue Marguerite or Blue Daisy. The genus Felicia is a group of flowering plants in the Aster family, Asteraceae. They are native to sunny habitats in southern Africa, parts of tropical Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. F. amelloides, is cultivated as an ornamental garden plant for its abundant daisy-like blue composite flowers, with prominent yellow disc florets. F. amelloides is an evergreen shrublet usually 30–60 cm (12–24 in) tall by 50 cm (20 in) wide, but sometimes up to 1 m (3 ft 3 in) tall, with densely branched stems, and ovate green leaves. Floers are about 30 mm in diameter, and borne on naked stalks up to 180 mm long. This species is much cultivated in New Zealand as a garden shrub, but in temperate climates in some parts of the world it is treated as an annual bedding plant or for window boxes, hanging baskets, and other summer bedding schemes for parks and gardens. Drought- and wind-resistant, it requires a sheltered aspect in full sun, and does not tolerate frost, so it is ideal for Northland, New Zealand. Photographs taken in the Sub-tropical Quarry Gerdens in Whangarei, Northland. NZ.
FUCHSIA.
Fuchsia species and Hybrids: Fuchsia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Fuchsia is a genus of flowering plants that consists mostly of shrubs or small trees. They are commonly known by the generic name Fuchsia.The first Fuchsia was discovered on the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, (now the Dominican Republic and Haiti) in about 1696–1697 by the French Minim monk and botanist, Charles Plumier during his third expedition to the Greater Antilles. He named the new genus after the renowned German botanist Leonhart Fuchs (1501–1566). There are currently about 110 recognized species of Fuchsia. The vast majority are native to South America, but with a few occurring north through Central America to Mexico, and also several from New Zealand to Tahiti. One New Zealand species, the kōtukutuku (F. excorticata), is unusual in the genus in being a tree, growing up to 12–15 metres (39–49 ft) tall. Fuchsia leaves are opposite or in whorls of 3–5, simple lanceolate and usually have serrated margins (entire in some species), 1–25 cm long, they can be deciduous or evergreen, depending on the species. The flowers are very decorative, with the new doubles like beautiful ballroom gowns; they have a pendulous "teardrop" shape and are displayed in profusion throughout the summer and autumn, and all year in tropical species. They have four long, slender sepals and four shorter, broader petals; in many species the sepals are bright red and the petals purple, but the colours can vary from white to dark red, purple-blue, and orange. New hybrids have increased the colour range and flower shape. A few have yellowish tones & white in various combinations. The the fruit is a small (5–25 mm) dark red to almost black berry, containing numerous very small seeds. The majority of fuchsia species are native to Central and South America. A small additional number are found on Hispaniola (two species), in New Zealand (three species) and on Tahiti (one species). They grow very well in Northland, but like partial shade for best effect.
Fuchsia paniculata: Mexican Fuchsia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Fuchsia paniculata: Common Name - Mexican Fuchsis. A spectacular shrub or small tree from the cool highlands of Mexico and Central America. It is covered in large panicles of bright pink flowers almost year round. Photographs taken in the Subtropical Quarry Gardens in Whangarei, and St Francis Xavier Church, Kensington, Whangarei..
Images Of Fuchsia.
GARDENIA.
Gardenia species G jasminoides - G. augusta: Cape Jasmine.
BOTANICAL NAME: Gardenia species: Common Name - Gardenia. A genus of 142 species of flowering plants in the family, Rubiaceae. They are native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, southern Asia, Australasia and Oceania. They are evergreen shrubs and small trees growing to 1–15 metres (3.3–49 ft) tall. The leaves dark green and glossy with a leathery texture. The flowers appear in small clusters, or singly, white, or pale yellow. Flowering is from about mid-spring to mid-summer and many species are strongly scented. Photographs taken in the Subtropical Quarry Gardens in Whangarei, Northland, New Zealand.
Gardenia jasminoides (syn. G. augusta) Common Name Cape Jasmine, is very suited to Northland, however, if planted in shade, may suffer winter burn in cold and strong winds, see photographs below, taken in shrub border in Caffler Park, Whangarei. Compare these to the photographs above, taken in an open warm position.
Gardenia jasminoides (syn. G. augusta) Common Name Cape Jasmine, is very suited to Northland, however, if planted in shade, may suffer winter burn in cold and strong winds, see photographs below, taken in shrub border in Caffler Park, Whangarei. Compare these to the photographs above, taken in an open warm position.
GREVILLEA..
Grevillea species: Grevillea - Spider Flower - Toothbrush Plant.
BOTANICAL NAME: Grevillea species: Common Name - grevillea, spider flower, silky oak (tree Grevillea), bottle brush and toothbrush plants. A genus of about 360 species of evergreen flowering plants, comprising ground plants and weeping shrubs to bushes and trees. They belong to the family Proteaceae, native to rainforest and more open habitats in Australia, New Guinea, New Caledonia, Indonesia and Sulawesi. The brightly coloured, petal-less flowers consist of a calyx tube that splits into 4 lobes with long styles. The genus has been widely cultivated for the home garden, so there are many cultivars available through nurseries. They grow very well in Northland and a number of species can be seen in the Subtropical Quarry Gardens in Whangarei, where many of these photographs were taken. See Also Exotic Trees, and www.AustraliaFlora.weebly.com.
Images Of Grevillea.
HETEROCENTRON.
Heterocentron elegans: Spanish Shawl. A quick-growing small shrub suitable for ground cover or rock gardens. It has attractive red deep pink flowers in late spring and attractive red stems. Excellent in Northland, but does not like cold temperatures, where it becomes deciduous.
Heterocentron macrostachyum: Pearl Flower (Above). A sprawling small shrub with bright cerise flowers in spring. Excellent ground cover plant, grows quickly. It is frost tender. Good subject for hanging baskets.
HIBISCUS.
Hibiscus species & Hybrids: Hibiscus - Rose Mallow.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hibiscus species & hybrids, Commonly Called Hibiscus or Rose Mallow. A genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae. A large genus of several hundred species that are native to warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical regions throughout the world. Member species are often noted for their showy flowers. The genus includes both annual and perennial herbaceous plants, as well as woody shrubs and small trees. The leaves are alternate, ovate to lanceolate, often with a toothed or lobed margin. The flowers are large, conspicuous, trumpet-shaped, with five or more petals, color from white to pink, red, orange, purple or yellow, and from 4–18 cm broad. Flower colour can change with age in certain species, such as H. mutabilis and H. tiliaceus. The fruit is a dry five-lobed capsule, containing several seeds in each lobe, which are released when the capsule splits open on maturity. Hibiscus are very popular North of Auckland, indeed the coast on Auckland's North Shore is known as The Hibiscus Coast. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis hybrids.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis: Common Name - rose mallow, Chinese hibiscus, China rose and shoe flower, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae, native to East Asia. This is the classic image of the Hibiscus of the South Pacific. The botanical name means Rose Od China. The native H. rosa-sinensis is a bushy, evergreen small to large shrub, growing 2.5–5 m (8–16 ft) tall and 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) wide, with glossy leaves and solitary, brilliant red flowers in summer and autumn. However, numerous varieties, cultivars, and hybrids are available, with flower colours ranging from white through yellow and orange to scarlet and shades of pink, with both single and double sets of petals. These hybrids are the much loved Hibiscus that are common in gardens in Northland. The cultivar 'Cooperi' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
HIBISCUS: In temperate zones, probably the most commonly grown ornamental species is Hibiscus syriacus, the common garden hibiscus, also known in some areas as the "Rose of Althea" or "Rose of Sharon". In tropical and subtropical areas, the Chinese hibiscus (H. rosa-sinensis), with its many showy hybrids, is the most popular hibiscus. The double pink Hybrid was among the earliest of the Hybrid Hibiscus introduced to New Zealand, along with a Single Red. They are hardy and grow up to 8ft in height. They have become less popular with the introduction of the Hawaiian Hybrids.
Hibiscus syriacus: Rose Of Sharon - Rose Mallow - St Joseph's Rod.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hibiscus syriacu: Common Name - Rose Of Sharon. A species of Hibiscus in the family Malvaceae, native to much of Asia. Common names include Rose mallow (United Kingdom) and St Joseph's rod (Italy). H. syriacus is a hardy shrub. It is upright, reaching 2–4 m (7–13 ft) in height, bearing large trumpet-shaped dark pink flowers with prominent yellow-tipped white stamens. Individual flowers are short-lived, lasting only a day. However, numerous buds are produced on the shrub's new growth, which provides prolific flowering over a long summer blooming period.
HOVEA.
HOVEA species: Pea Bush - Australian Pea Bush.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hovea species: Common Name - Purple pea, Pea Bush. A genus of perennial shrubs which are native to Australia. Massive amounts of purple pea shaped flowers appear in early spring. They prefer a sandy, well-drained soil. Prune after dlowering. H. lanceolata and H. Pungens are two species in cultivation. They grow to 6 or 7 feet in the open.
HYDRANGEA.
Hydrangea macrophylla: Hydrangia - Hortensia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hydrangea macrophylla - Common Names - Hydrangea or Hortensia. Hydrangia is a genus of 70-75 species of flowering plants native to southern and eastern Asia and the Americas. Most are shrubs 1 to 3 meters tall. They can be either deciduous or evergreen, however, the species widely grown in New Zealand are all deciduous, H. macrophylla the most favored. Hydrangeas were introduced to New Zealand by settlers, but have been cultivated by nurserymen to improve aspects of growth and flower. The family is Hydrangeaceae. They do vry well in shaded places in Northland. Pictures show Hydrangea bushes growing in The Avenues, Whangarei.
Hydrangea serrata: Japanese Hydrangea - Mountain Hydrangea.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hydrangea serrate x varieties: Common Name - Mountain Hydrangea or Tea Of Heaven. A species of flowering plant in the family Hydrangeacea, native to mountainous regions of Korea and Japan. Grows to 1.2 m (4 ft) tall and broad, it is a deciduous shrub with oval leaves and panicles of blue and pink flowers in summer and autumn. It is widely cultivated as an attractive ornamental shrub throughout the world in areas with suitable climate and soil. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
Hydrangea paniculata : Panicled hydrangea - is a species of hydrangea in the family Hydrangaceae native to southern and eastern China, Korea, Japan and Russia. In late summer it bears large conical panicles of creamy white fertile flowers
HYPERICUM.
Hypericum leschenaultia: Hypericum - St John's Wort.
BOTANICAL NAME: Hypericum leschenaultia: Common name, St John's Wort. Hypericum is a genus of about 400 species of flowering plants in the family Hypericaceae. The genus has a nearly worldwide distribution. All members of the genus may be referred to as St. John's wort, though they are also commonly just called hypericum, and some are known as tutsan. Hypericums vary from herbaceous annual or perennials 5–10 cm tall to shrubs and small trees up to 12 m tall. The leaves are opposite, simple oval, 1–8 cm long, either deciduous or evergreen. The flowers vary from pale to dark yellow, and from 0.5–6 cm in diameter, with five (rarely four) petals, most having prominent stamens. The fruit is usually a dry capsule which splits to release the numerous small seeds; in some species it is fleshy and berry-like. H. leschenaultia is a vigorous shrub with erect slender stems, leaves smooth rich green, has rich yellow eaxy saucer shaped flowers with overlapping petals produced in clusters and abundance through summer. It grows to a height of 2m x 1.5m.
JUSTICIA.
Justica species: Shrimp Planr - Water Willow.
BOTANICAL NAME: Justicia apecies. Common Name - Shrimp Plant, Water Willow. A genus of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae. The roughly 420 species it contains are native to tropical to warm temperate regions of the Americas, with two species occurring north into cooler temperate regions. They are closely related to Pachystachys. They are evergreen perennials and shrubs with leaves which are often strongly veined; but they are primarily cultivated for their showy tubular flowers in shades of white, cream, yellow, orange or pink. They are frost tender, but grow well in Whangarei and further north. Photographs are od J. Aurea growing in the Subtropical Quarry Garden in Whangarei.
LAGERSTROEMIA.
Lagerstroemia indica: Crape Myrtle or Crepe Myrtle.
BOTANICAL NAME: Lagerstroemia indica commonly known as crape myrtle or crepe myrtle. A species in a genus of around 50 species of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Indian Subcontinent, southeast Asia, northern Australia and parts of Oceania. L. indica should be pruned after flowering as it flowers on the new season's growth. It is idealy suited to Northland's warmer climate, and grows and flowers very well in Whangarei. The photographs were taken in Central Avenue and at the Subtropical Quarry Gardens. It is a member of the plant family Lythraceae. L. indica is beautifully colored, and is a popular variety used in modern landscaping. The bright red Dynamite Crape Myrtle, the deep pink Pink Velour Crape and the purple Twilight Crape Myrtle, are cultivars available in ornamental horticulture.
LANTANA
Lantana montevidensis: Trailing Lantana, Creeping Lantana - Shrubverbena, etc.
BOTANICAL NAME: Lantana montevidensis : Common names, trailing lantana, weeping lantana, creeping lantana, small lantana, purple lantana or trailing shrubverbena. It is native to South America. L. montevidensis is a strongly scented flowering ground-cover plant with oval-shaped green leaves. With support it can be trained as a climber, a trailing form on a ledge, and a groundcover form on flat areas. Unlike other species of Lantana, it is not classed as an invasive species. The flower is a circular head of multiplr purple to white funnel-shaped flowers on a single head. The fruit is a berry.
Lantana species: N.B. Some species are invasive, and are considered to be noxious weeds in Northland, New Zealand. The spread of lantana is aided by the characteristic of their leaves, which are somewhat poisonous to most animals, while their fruit is a delicacy for many birds which distribute the seeds.
BOTANICAL NAME: Lantana : a genus of about 150 species of perennial flowering plants in the family, Verbenaceae. They are native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa but exist as an introduced species in New Zealand, where the species L. camara is listed as an invasive species, the aromatic flowers are a mix of red, orange, yellow, or blue and white florets... The genus includes both herbaceous plants and shrubs growing to 0.5–2 m (1.6–6.6 ft) tall. Their common names are shrub verbenas or lantanas. Single colour floret varieties exist as new varieties are being selected.
LOROPETALUM.
Loropetalum chinense: Chinese Fringe Flower.
BOTANICAL NAME: Loropetalum chinense: Common Name - Chinese Fringe Flower. There are two forma of L. chinense, a white to pale-yellow flowering, green-leafed variety (photographs of which were taken in the Whangarei CBD), and a pink-flowering variety with leaves varying from bronze-red when new to olive-green or burgundy when mature, depending on selection and growing conditions.They are evergreen with branches forming horizontal layers. The leaves are alternately arranged, ovate up to 5 cm long by 3.5 cm wide, and have a slightly abrasive feel. L. chinense grows best in a sunny, fertile position, and prefers a slightly acid soil. This will bring out the colour in the foliage. It is a hardy shrub and has become a very popular garden plant in Whangarei. Flowers are prolific, and the pink flowering variety has deeply coloured foliage that may contain various green, copper, purple and red tones. Photographs of the pink form were taken in Bank Street, Whangarei.
LAVENDULA - See Hedges Section.
LEUCADENDRON.
Leucadendron species: Cone Plant.
BOTANICAL NAME: Leucadendron species: Common Name, Cone Bush. A genus of about 70 species of decotative shrubs and trees in the family Proteaceae. They are native to South Africa. Most species are shrubs grow up to 1 m tall, some to 2 or 3 m. A few grow into moderate-sized trees up to 16 m tall. The leaves are spirally arranged, simple, entire, and usually green, often covered with a waxy bloom, and in the case of the Silvertree, with a distinct silvery tone produced by dense, straight, silky hairs. This inspired the generic name Leucadendron, which literally means "white tree". The flowers are produced in dense coloured leaves, or inflorescences; with separate male and female plants. The seed heads of Leucadendron are woody cone-like structures inside these coloured leaves. This gave rise to their generic common name cone-bush. The cones contain numerous seeds. A few species, such as the Silvertree, L. argenteum have a silky-haired parachute, enabling the large round nut to be dispersed by wind. About half the species store the seeds in fire-proof cones and release them only after a fire has killed the plant or at least the branch bearing the cone.
LUCULIA.
Luculia gratissima - Luculia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Luculia gratissima. Common name, Luculia.
Luculia gratissima is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is an ornamental plant that is found from the central Himalayas and Northern China. It grows well in Whangarei and flowers early winter. This plant was photographed in Laurie Hall Park, Whangarei.
Luculia gratissima is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is an ornamental plant that is found from the central Himalayas and Northern China. It grows well in Whangarei and flowers early winter. This plant was photographed in Laurie Hall Park, Whangarei.
Luculia grandiflora:
Luculia grandiflora: Bhutan Luculia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Luculia grandiflora: Common Name - Bhutan Luculia. A small shrub up to 4 metres tall, (10 to 12 feet), with wonderful, large white flower heads. The leaves are larger than L. gratissima from the Himalayas. The shrub grows very well in Northland, it is hardy, however it is also frost tender. Photographs were taken in Whangarei.
MAHONIA.
Mahonia lomariifolia: Oregon Grape - Holly Grape - Mountain Grape.
BOTANICAL NAME: Mahonia lomarifoliia: Common Names - Oregon Grape, Mountain Grape, or Grape Holly. Mahonia is a genus of more than 100 species of evergreen shrub, many of which are found in North America. They are native to Asia, the Himalaya, North America and Central America, and are closely related to the genus Berberis. The type species of the genus is Mahonia aquifolium, (Oregon grape) from the Pacific coast of North America. Several species are popular garden shrubs, grown for their ornamental, often spiny, evergreen foliage, yellow flowers in autumn, winter and early spring, and blue-black berries. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
NANDINA.
Nandina domestica: Nandina - Hevenly Bamboo - Sacred Bamboo.
BOTANICAL NAME: Nandina domestica: Common Name - Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo or Sacred Bamboo. A species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae, native to eastern Asia from the Himalayas to Japan. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Nandina. Despite the common name, it is not a bamboo but an erect evergreen shrub up to 2 m (7 ft) tall by 1.5 m (5 ft) wide, with numerous, usually unbranched stems growing from ground level. The glossy leaves are sometimes deciduous in colder areas, 50–100 cm (20–39 in) long, bi- to tri-pinnately compound, with the individual leaflets 4–11 cm (2–4 in) long and 1.5–3 cm broad. The young leaves in spring are brightly coloured pink to red before turning green; old leaves turn red or purple again before falling. The flowers are white, borne in early summer in conical clusters held well above the foliage. The fruit is a bright red berry 5–10 mm diameter, ripening in late autumn and often persisting through the winter.They grow exceptionally well in Northland. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
NERIUM.
Nerium oleander: Nerium - Oleander
BOTANICAL NAME: Nerium oleander: Common Names are Nerium or Oleander. An evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the family Apocynaceae All parts of Nerium are poisonous. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Nerium. It is most commonly known as oleander, from its superficial resemblance to the unrelated olive Olea. N. oleander was very popular up until recently as a flowering garden shrub, however, the publicity surrounding its toxic parts has meant that most nurseries and local councils no longer grow it. It was so widely cultivated that no precise region of origin has been identified, though southwest Asia has been suggested. The Oleander is one of the most poisonous of commonly grown garden plants. N. oleander grows to 2–6 m (6.6–20 ft) tall. The leaves are in pairs or whorls of three, thick and leathery, dark-green, narrow lanceolate.. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of each branch; they are white, pink to red, 2.5–5 cm in diameter, with a deeply 5-lobed fringed corolla round the central corolla tube. They are often, but not always, sweet-scented. The fruit is a long narrow capsule which splits open at maturity to release numerous downy seeds. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
Images Of Nerium.
ODONTONEMA
Odontonema strictum: Red Justica.
BOTANICAL NAME: Odontonema strictum: Common Name - Red Justica. O. strictum is a species of plant in the family Acanthaceae. It is endemic to South America and grows to a height of two metres. It is suitable for container growing, but will only reach about 1 metre in a container. The waxy flowers grow in twelve inch red spikes, and in their native country they attract hummingbirds and butterflies when they bloom in the autumn. Hard pruning in winter will improve flowering. Although tropical in origin, O. strictum does well in frost-free temperate areas. It grows very well in Northland. These photographs were taken in Whangarei's Avenues district.
PAEONIA.
Paeonia suffruticosa: Peony - Tree Peony.
BOTANICAL NAME: Paeonia suffruticosa: Common Name - tree peony. A species of peony native to China. It is known as mudan in Chinese and is an important symbol in Chinese culture. It was first described and validly published by Henry Charles Andrews in 1804. The flower component is its most attracting feature of the plant. Paeonia Suffruticosa’s flower is very large in comparison with most other flower species. The size of the flower usually ranges from 6-12 inches cross. It is the flower component that is used to classify the plant’s cultivar, using characteristics such as the flower form and colour. Photographs taken in Glenvale Road, Whangarei.
PHILADELPHUS.
Philadelphus species: Mock Orange.
BOTANICAL NAME: Philadelphus species. Common Name - Mock-Orange. A genus of 60 odd species of shrubs [n the family Hydrangeaceae, up to 6 m tall, native to North and Central America, Asia and South-east Europe. The common name Mock Orange, refers to their flowers which resemble those of citrus, and have a citrus smell. Philadelphus is named after an ancient Greek king of Egypt, Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Most species are deciduous but a few species from the south of the genus' range are evergreen. The leaves are opposite, simple, from 1 to 14 cm long. The flowers are white, with four petals and sepals, 1–4 cm diameter, and commonly sweetly scented, with lemon coloured stamens. The fruit is a small capsule, containing numerous small seeds. Photographs taken in Central Avenue, Whangarei, Northland, NZ.
SPECIES - Philidelphus pubescens - Mock Orange or Sytinga : P. coronarius - Sweet Mock Orange : P. lewisii - Indian Arrowwood or Lewis Mock Orange : P. mexicanus - Mexican Mock Orange.
HYBRID CULTIVARS - Most hybrid cultivars were created by French plant breeder Pierre Lemoine, crosses of P. coronaries and P. microphyllis. Examples are P. X cymosos varieties : P. X polyanthus varieties : P. virginalis varieties (some of the original varieties) : P. X purpureus-maculatus varieties.
SPECIES - Philidelphus pubescens - Mock Orange or Sytinga : P. coronarius - Sweet Mock Orange : P. lewisii - Indian Arrowwood or Lewis Mock Orange : P. mexicanus - Mexican Mock Orange.
HYBRID CULTIVARS - Most hybrid cultivars were created by French plant breeder Pierre Lemoine, crosses of P. coronaries and P. microphyllis. Examples are P. X cymosos varieties : P. X polyanthus varieties : P. virginalis varieties (some of the original varieties) : P. X purpureus-maculatus varieties.
PHILOTHECA
Phylotheca myoporoides: formally known as Eriostemon myoporoides. Common Name, Long-leaf Wax Flower. A flowering shrub in the family Rutaceae. Native to South West Australia, it grows up to 2 metres, with waxy foliage and white waxy flowers, which appear in spring. Grows well in Whangarei. Photograph taken in the area above Laurie Hall Park.
PHYLICA.
Phylica pubescens: Flannel Flower.
BOTANICAL NAME: Phylica pubescens: Common Name, Flannel Flower. Phylica is a genus of about 150 species belonging to the family Rhamnaceae. Most species are restricted to South Africa, but a few species occur on islands including Madagascar, the Mascarene Islands, Île Amsterdam, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha, and Gough Island. P. pubescens is a bushy shrub with leathery, hair-covered narrow green leaves. Each branch ends in a flowerhead. These flowers are creamy-white and have a faint cinnamon scent. They flower in autumn and winter. The showy bracts providing food for bees. Very popular for floral work. They need a warm sunny site, tolerates light frost. Trim well after flowering.They prefer well drained soil, and are suited to Northland's coastal areas. Photographs taken in the Subtropical Quarry Garden, Russell Road, Whangarei.
PIERIS.
Pieris japonica: Lilly Of The Valley Bush - Pearl Flower - Japanese Andromeda.
BOTANICAL NAME: Pieris japonica. Common names Lilly Of The Valley Bush, Pearl Flower, Japanese Andromeda. A flowering shrub that is a member of the heath family, Ericaceae. It is native to eastern China, Taiwan, and Japan where it grows in mountain scrub. It grows better in cooler more southerly parts of NZ, but grows well in Whangarei & further north. P. japonica is a shrub or a small tree 1–4 metres high, with white to pale pink flowers, borne in early spring. The plant is poisonous if consumed by people or animals
The name "andromeda" originated from an earlier classification of the plant. Pictures of the pink form show a plant growing in Second Avenue, Whangarei, while the white form was found in the CBD.
The name "andromeda" originated from an earlier classification of the plant. Pictures of the pink form show a plant growing in Second Avenue, Whangarei, while the white form was found in the CBD.
POLYGALA.
Polygala grandiflora: Milkwort - Snakewort.
BOTANICAL NAME: Polygala grandiflorais: Common Names, Milkwort or Snakewort. AP. grandiflora belongs to a large genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Polygalaceae. The genus is distributed widely throughout much of the world in temperate zones and the tropics, but is not native to the Pacific Island or New Zealand. The genus name Polygala comes from the ancient Greek "much milk", as the plant was thought to increase milk yields in cattle. Polygala includes annual and perennial plants, shrubs, vines, and trees. The roots often have a scent reminiscent of wintergreen. The flower is bilateral in shape, with two large petal-like sepals on the sides, often called the "wings", and three smaller sepals behind. There are three petals in shades of reddish purple, which are joined at the bases. The fruit is a capsule, sometimes winged. It contains 2 seeds which are usually black, hairy, and tipped with a large white aril. (An aril or arillus, is any specialized outgrowth from the attachment point of the seed,or hilum, that covers or is attached to the seed).
PROTEA
Protea scolymocephala X. The thistle protea. A flowering plant from the genus Protea, native to South Africa. It's a small erect shrub between 0.5 and 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are linear-spatulate curving upwards. The flowerhead is yellow-green and small, with 3.5 - 4.5 cm across. The species flowers between June and November. The fruits are retained. P. scolymocephala occupies sandy flats and coastal lowlands in the Western Cape from approximately the Olifants River in the north, through Cape Town to Hermanus in the east. The species is considered vulnerable and is threatened by both building and alien vegetation. Photographs taken in Whangarei. There are a large number of Protea hybrids in cultivation.
IMAGES OF PROTEA
PYRACANTHA.
Pyracantha species: Firethorn or Pyracantha.
BOTANICAL NAME: Pyracantha: Common Names Firethorn or Pyracantha. A genus of thorny evergreen large shrubs in the family Rosaceae, They are native to Southeast Europe east to Southeast Asia, resemble and are related to Cotoneaster, but have serrated leaf margins and numerous thorns (Cotoneaster is thornless), and are not considered invasive, but should not be grown in Northland, NZ. The plants reach up to 6 m (20 ft) tall. There are seven species. They have white flowers very similar to Cotoneaster, and either red, orange, or yellow berries, Cotoneaster has red berries. The flowers are produced during late spring and early summer; the berries or pomes develop from late summer, and mature in late autumn. Photographs taken in Western Hills Drive, Whangarei, and Manse Street, Regent, Whangarei.
RAPHIOLEPIS
Rhaphiolepis indica: Indian Hawthorne.
BOTANICAL NAME: Rhaphiolepis indica Common Name - Indian Hawthorne. A genus of about 15 species of evergreen shrubs in the Rosaceae plant family. They are native to warm temperate and subtropical eastern and southeastern Asia, The name is commonly misspelt Raphiolepsis. The species vary in size, some only reaching 1-1.5 m, while R. ferruginea can reach 10 m. The leaves are alternate, leathery, glossy dark green, simple, 3–9 cm longin. The flowers are white or pink, 1–2 cm diameter. The fruit is a small. The best known species is R. indica from southern China, grown for its decorative pink flowers, and popular in bonsai culture. R. umbellata (Yeddo Hawthorn) from Japan and Korea has blunter leaves and white flowers. Photographs taken at the old Pak'n Save Supermarket in the Whangarei CBD, NZ.
RHODODENDRON (See Also Under Small Trees)
Viraya Rhododendrons: Tropical Rhododendrons.
BOTANICAL NAME: Rhododendron: Common Name - Viraya. Virayas are mostly evergreen shrubs growing to as high as 2 metres. They have tough dark green foliage, but are frost tender, coming from tropical regions. Vireya Rhododendrons have been grown for over a hundred years, yet it is only recently that these plants have been accepted by the gardening community for their ease of growing as a garden, bush-house or patio plant or even hanging baskets. They will grow outdoors in Northland, and varieties range widely in size and shape of plant, leaf and flowers. Flower colour varies also, and many are beautifully perfumed. Most Vireyas are spectacularly different from the Rhododendron commonly grown in cooler climates, in fact they resemble Azaleas more than Rhododendtons. Although Vireyas originate in tropical regions, such as New Guinea, Indonesia and Malaysia, these plants have been grown successfully in parts of Australasia, in fact rgere is a major Viraya Nursery in Kerikeri in Northland New Zealand.
ROSMARINUS.
Rosmarinus lavendulaceus: Rosemary.
BOTANICAL NAME: Rosmarinus lavendulaceus: Common Name - Lavenda Rosemary. A ground cover or trailing plant with masses of lilac coloured flowers. A hardy, evergreen plant that tolerates coastal conditions, so is very suitable for Northland gardens, excellent for growing over walls. Photographs taken in Whangarei.
Rosmarinus officinalus; Rosemary.
BOTANICAL NAME: Rosmarinus officinalis: Common Name - Rosemary. A woody, perennial herb with fragrant, evergreen, needle-like leaves and white, pink, purple, or blue flowers, native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae, which includes many other herbs. Rosemary is used as a herb, or as a decorative garden plant. It has a strong mint smell. It is commonly used in the cooking of lamb. It is unaffected by salt winds, so is perfect for Northland. It readily grows from slips or hardwood cuttings, and can be pruned to shape. Whotographs taken in Whangarei.
RUSSELIA.
Russelia equisetiformis: Firecracker Plant - Coral Plant - Fountain Plant.
BOTANICAL NAME: Russelia equisetiformis : COMMON NAME - Firecracker plant, Coral plant, Coralblow or Fountain plant. A weeping shrub in the family Plantaginaceae. Native to Mexico and Guatemala. R. equisetiformis is a multi-branching plant with 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 m) long arching branches which spray out like a fountain of foliage and flower. The stems and tiny oval leaves are bright green. It flowers profusely with small red flowers. Photographs taken in Hatea Drive, Whangarei, where it blooms year round as with other tropical and subtropical climates. Photographs shows R. equisetiformis hanging over a wall growing with Agapanthus.
SENNA.
Senna bicapsularis : Cassia - Christmas Bush - Money Bush - Yellow Candlewood.
BOTANICAL NAME: Senna bicapsularis is a species of the group of plants formally known as Cassia. It is native to northern South America, and also the West Indies. It is considered invasive in several coastal areas in the tropics, including the Galápagos Islands and New Caledonia. Common names include, Christmas Bush, Money Bush, and Yellow Candlewood. A large shrub growing to 3.5 m tall. The leaves are attractive, 2.5–9 cm long, pinnate, with six to eight leaflets. The flowers are produced a few together on short racemes (see photographs taken in Cafler Park, Whangarei), the individual flower is quite large, yellow, 12–16 mm long. Although regarded as an 'invasive' plant in the tropics close to New Zealand, it has not so far become a pest in Northland.
Senna corymbosa: Buttercup Bush - Flowering Senna.
BOTANICAL NAME: Senna corymbosa : Common Names - Argentine Senna, Argentina Senna, Buttercup Bush, Flowering Senna, Texas Flowery Senna or Tree Senna. An evergreen shrub that reaches a height of about two to three metres. It grows very well in Northland and flowers profusely in the autumn, with canary-yellow blooms. Argentine Senna may be readily propagated by cuttings. It will stand heavy pruning in the spring. Photograph taken in Whangarei. S. alata is an Australian species that has a coarse look compared to C. corymbosa and is fast becoming an invasive species in Northland. It is identified by its very large bean-like seed pods.
Senna didymobotrya: Cassia - Candelabra Tree - Peanut Butter Cassia - Popcorn Cassia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Senna didymobotrya: Common Name - Cassia. A species of flowering plant in the family leguminosae. Other common names include African senna, popcorn senna, candelabra tree, and peanut butter cassia. It is native to Africa, and found across the African continent. It has been introduced to many other parts of the world for use as an ornamental garden plant S. didymobotria is also used as a cover crop and a nitrogen fixing, leguminous green manure. S. didymobotria is now commonly found in the wild in Australia, and does very well in the Northland climate, but does not spread out of hand. It is a hairy, aromatic shrub usually growing up to about five meters tall but known to reach nine meters at times. The leaves are up to half a meter long and are made up of many pairs of elongated oval leaflets each up to 6.5 centimeters long. The plant has a strong scent which has been variously described as being reminiscent of mice, wet dog, peanut butter, and burned popcorn, hence the origin of some common names.The plant flowers plentifully in racemes of bright yellow flowers, with some flowers also occurring in leaf axils. The flower raceme is unmistakable, as it has open flowers on the lower part with unopened buds at the tip covered in stark brownish green or black bracts. Some of the stamens have large anthers measuring a centimeter long. The fruit is a flat brown legume pod up to 12 centimeters long which contains up to 16 bean like seeds up to a centimeter long each. It should be pruned hard after flowering. Photographs taken in the Subtropical Quarry Garden in Whangarei, Northland, NZ.
STREPTOSOLEN.
Streptosolen jamesonii: Marmalade Bush.
Streptosolen jamesonii: Common Name - Marmalade Bush. An evergreen shrub in the Solanaceae family that produces loose clusters of flowers gradually changing from yellow to red as they develop, resulting in the commonly used name armalade Bush. The sole member of its genus, it is found in open woodlands of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The stems tend to be tall and slender, with an overall height of 1–2 meters (3.3–6.6 ft). The leaves are green to dark green, finely crinkled. The flowers have a slender tube 3–4 cm long, with spreading petal lobes. Flowering is from spring through to autumn. It us frost tender. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
The stems tend to be tall and slender, with an overall height of 1–2 meters (3.3–6.6 ft). The leaves are green to dark green, finely crinkled. The flowers have a slender tube 3–4 cm long, with spreading petal lobes. Flowering is from spring through to autumn. It us frost tender. This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
STROBILANTHES
Strobilanthes anisophyllus: Goldfussia.
BOTANICAL NAME: Strobilanthes anisophyllus : Common Name, Goldfussia or simply Strobilanthes. A hardy, evergreen small shrub growing to around 1.5m tall. It has dark green lanceolate leaves of unequal size with slightly toothed margins. The leaves are stained with a blackish purple tint which is accentuated when growing in full sun. Cone shaped mauve flowers (25mm) appear in spring, and intermittently throughout the year. Photographs taken in the Sub-Tropical Quarry Gardens, Whangarei.
THRYPTOMENE.
Thryptomene calycina: Heath Myrtle - Rock Thryptomene.
BOTANICAL NAME: Thryptomene calycina. Common Name - Heath Myrtle or Rock Thryptomene. A shrub species in the family Myrtaceae, or Myrtle. It grows to between 0.3 and 1.5 metres high and produces white flowers between February and November in the species native range. The species is endemic to Western Australia, and South Australia, where it was found during a botanical expedition to the atomic bomb testing sights at Maralinga and Emu. Other species have pink flowers. Photographs were taken in November in Whangarei.
TIBOUCHINA
Tibouchina semidecandra grandiflora - Glory Bush - Lasiandra - Princess Flower.
BOTANICAL NAME: Tibouchina semidecandrens 'Grandiflora'. Common name Glory Bush. Tibouchina is a genus of about 350 species of sub-tropical shrubs and trees in the family Melastomataceae. Glory bushes or glory trees are native to rainforests of Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America, especially Brazil. Tibouchina semidecandra, the princess flower,
glory bush, or lasiandra, is an evergreen shrub or small ornamental tree native to Brazil
and ranges from 10 to 15 feet in height. There are two main varieties grown in cultivation - 'Grandiflora' which has Large, royal purple flowers, opening to about five inches. 'Edwardsii' is a smaller flowering variety, but flowers more profusely. The old name was Lasiandra. They do not like cold climates, but grow very well in Northland. Pictured growing in Kamo Road, Whangarei. Below is T. lepidota.
glory bush, or lasiandra, is an evergreen shrub or small ornamental tree native to Brazil
and ranges from 10 to 15 feet in height. There are two main varieties grown in cultivation - 'Grandiflora' which has Large, royal purple flowers, opening to about five inches. 'Edwardsii' is a smaller flowering variety, but flowers more profusely. The old name was Lasiandra. They do not like cold climates, but grow very well in Northland. Pictured growing in Kamo Road, Whangarei. Below is T. lepidota.
Tibouchina urvilleana var. 'Edwardsii' - Glory Bush - Lasiandra - Princess
Flower.
BOTANICAL NAME: Tibouchina urvilleana var. 'Edwardsii' A variety of the species in the family Melastomataceae. It is native to Brazil. Growing to 3–6 m (10–20 ft) tall by 2–3 m (7–10 ft) wide, it is a sprawling evergreen shrub with longitudinally veined, dark green hairy leaves. Clusters of brilliant purple flowers up to 10 cm (4 in) in diameter, with black stamens, are borne throughout summer and autumn. Similar in appearance and flower to T. semidecandra grandiflora, however, the flower is smaller and more prolific. Photograph taken in First Avenue, Whangarei. Bottom two photographs show seed pods.
Tibouchina lepidota 'Alstonville'- Glory Bush - Alstonville Tibouchina - Lasiandra.
BOTANICAL NAME: Tibouchina lepidota var. 'Alstonville'.Sometimes known as glory bushes, Tibouchina lepidota : purple flowers in April through autumn and sometimes into early winter. They open from attractive reddish buds and have curled stamens like claws. These plants became
popular about fifteen or twenty years ago but they are not as common in New Zealand as Australia, however, this species grows very well in Northland. They can be used as a hedge (see photograph), and can be pruned to shape. Pictured growing in Kamo Road, Whangarei.
popular about fifteen or twenty years ago but they are not as common in New Zealand as Australia, however, this species grows very well in Northland. They can be used as a hedge (see photograph), and can be pruned to shape. Pictured growing in Kamo Road, Whangarei.
WEIGELA.
Weigela florida: Common Name, Weigela. A genus of between six and 38 species of deciduous shrubs in the family Caprifoliaceae, growing to 1–5 m or 3 to 15 feet tall. All are natives of eastern Asia. The genus is named after the German scientist Christian Ehrenfried Weigel. There are two main types grown in Whangarei. W. florida & W. florida variegata. W. florida has leaves 5–15 cm long, ovate-oblong with serrated margin. The flowers are 2–4 cm long, with a five-lobed white, pink, or red corolla, produced in small bunches of several together in early spring. Several of the species are very popular as ornamental shrubs, although species have mostly been superseded by hybrid crosses between W. florida and other Asiatic species. W. florida variegate is somewhat more popular than W. florida, as it has attractive creamy-white edges to the leaves, and the flowers are a softer pink. Photographs were taken in Second Avenue, Whangarei in late October. The bottom 3 photographs are W. florida variegate, and could be the cultivar 'Fairy Trumpets'.
WESTRINGIA.
Westringia species & Hybrids: Australian Mint Bush.
BOTANICAL NAME: Westringia: Commom Name, Australian Rosemary. A genus of Australian shrubs, that have been hybridised for vivid colour in the flower, e.g. Westringia 'Blue Gem'. Westringias belong to the mint family. W. rosmarinifolia is a common garden shrub, but has been superseded by the new hybrids. The flowers are small, white or blue, their upper petal (or lip) is divided into two lobes. There are four stamens - the upper two are fertile while the lower two are reduced to staminodes. The leaves are in whorls of 3 or 4. There is a variegated foliage form which is not as popular as W. 'Blue Gem' as the variegation is not very prominent, however, the flower is blue rather than white. Photographs taken in The Avenues, Whangarei.
BELOW: Westringia rosmarinifolia variegate.
BELOW: Westringia rosmarinifolia variegate.