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(Melicytus alpinus)
Porcupine Shrub (Melicytus alpinus)
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P. J. de Lange
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
P. J. de Lange
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: P. J. de Lange | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 | Uploader: Fæ | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Melicytus_aff._alpinus_(Kirk)_Garn.-Jones_(AM_AK355765-5).jpg | Notes: User created page with UploadWizard |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Melicytus alpinus, commonly known as Porcupine Shrub, is a slow-growing, dense, deciduous shrub native to New Zealand. It typically reaches a height of 2 feet and a width of 3 feet. The shrub is characterized by its long, spindly, almost leafless branches that give it a porcupine-like appearance. The leaves are narrow, leathery, and typically about 1cm long, with smooth margins; some may have serrated edges. This sparse foliage is an adaptation to the harsh environments where it thrives. During spring and early summer, Melicytus alpinus produces small, inconspicuous white flowers that are followed by fragrant white, blue-specked berries that are attractive to native lizards, which aid in seed dispersal.
The Porcupine Shrub is valued for its unique form and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, including drought. It is suitable for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as a specimen in xeriscaping due to its low water requirements. It thrives in full sun and requires soils with good drainage. While it is not commonly used in cultivation outside its native range, it can be an interesting addition to gardens that can mimic its natural alpine habitat. Gardeners should note that while the plant is hardy, it may not tolerate overly wet or poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Porcupine Shrub is valued for its unique form and its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, including drought. It is suitable for rock gardens, alpine gardens, and as a specimen in xeriscaping due to its low water requirements. It thrives in full sun and requires soils with good drainage. While it is not commonly used in cultivation outside its native range, it can be an interesting addition to gardens that can mimic its natural alpine habitat. Gardeners should note that while the plant is hardy, it may not tolerate overly wet or poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 1.7-3.4 feet
- Width: 1.7-3.4 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Other Names
Common Names: Mahoe Porcupine Shrub
Scientific Names: , Melicytus alpinus, Hymenanthera alpina, Hymenanthera dentata var. alpina,
GBIF Accepted Name: Melicytus alpinus (Kirk) Garn.-Jones