PHILLYREA ANGUSTIFOLIA

Phillyrea angustifolia

Description
Evergreen shrub with a dense and elegant habit, widely used in Mediterranean landscaping. It features narrow, elongated, dark green leaves, similar to olive leaves, giving it a natural and hardy appearance. It can reach between 2 and 5 meters in height, making it ideal for hedges or as a standalone plant.

Origin
Native to the Mediterranean region, particularly southern Europe and North Africa. It naturally grows in dry areas, slopes, and open woodlands.

History
Traditionally part of Mediterranean landscapes alongside holm oaks, mastic trees, and wild olives. It has been used for centuries in gardening due to its drought resistance and ability to form natural, low-maintenance hedges.

Curiosity
It belongs to the same family as the olive tree (Oleaceae). Its small, discreet flowers are highly attractive to pollinators. It is also very resistant to wind and salt, making it ideal for coastal areas.

Care
A very hardy and low-maintenance plant. It tolerates poor, calcareous, and rocky soils. It adapts well to full sun and partial shade, although it performs best with good sunlight exposure. Perfect for low-maintenance Mediterranean gardens.

Watering
Very low water requirements.

• Water moderately during the first months after planting.

• Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and rarely needs additional watering.

Pruning
Responds well to pruning.

• Can be trimmed to maintain a compact shape or used as a hedge.

• Light pruning is recommended in late winter or after flowering.

• Tolerates heavier pruning if rejuvenation is needed.