Phillyrea angustifolia

Description

Phillyrea angustifolia

Phillyrea angustifolia evergreen instant hedge has a common name of narrow leaved mock privet, but it is related to Olives.  Originally from the Mediterranean it was introduced into the United Kingdom before 1600. If left to its own it will form a compact round bush of medium size and have small creamy yellow fragrant flowers in May and June. It responds really well to trimming and can be kept trimmed as a low to medium sized hedge or as formal topiary shapes. If kept trimmed regularly it will not produce the flowers or only produce a few.

Phillyrea angustifolia evergreen instant hedge is excellent for coastal planting, Inland it would prefer a south or southwest facing aspect and it is hardy down to -15’C. It will grow in all types of soil but does prefer a well drained soil.

Phillyrea was popular in the Victorian era as a hedging plant and is starting to make a come back now due to its good form and ease of trimming.