Phillyrea angustifolia 24cm pot

Bring an elegant, understated evergreen into the garden with Phillyrea angustifolia, a refined Mediterranean shrub prized for its narrow, willow-like foliage and quiet, understated charm. Often likened to a slower, more delicate alternative to box or privet, it brings year-round structure without ever feeling heavy-handed.

This slow-growing evergreen typically reaches 2-3m (6.5-10ft) in height and spread over time, with dense, glossy, dark green leaves that give it real presence throughout the year. In late spring, it produces small clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers, followed by small blue-black berries that add further interest into autumn. Left unclipped, it forms a graceful, naturally rounded shrub; trimmed regularly, it makes an excellent choice for topiary, low hedging, or formal shapes.

Remarkably tolerant of poor, dry soils and exposed, coastal conditions, Phillyrea angustifolia thrives in full sun and free-draining ground, making it a particularly good choice for Cornish gardens facing salt-laden winds. Once established, it copes well with drought and requires very little maintenance beyond an occasional trim to maintain shape.

Ideal for coastal planting, Mediterranean-style borders, informal or clipped hedging, and topiary work, this versatile evergreen suits both relaxed and formal garden styles alike.

How to grow: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil, watering regularly until established. Once settled, it's highly drought-tolerant and needs minimal aftercare. Trim to shape in late spring or after flowering if grown as hedging or topiary.

Each plant is hand-selected for healthy, well-balanced growth.