In the low countries, Luma apiculata is a rare occurrence as a tree, but in the British Isles and Ireland, hefty specimens can be found. These are all spectacular appearances. The trees then have the typical light cinnamon-brown trunk that flakes off in small light brown-grey plates. In north-western Europe, the tree does not grow much taller than about six metres; in its natural range, it can reach more than 15 metres. The young twigs are typically reddish haired. The leaves are not very large. They are leathery and glossy dark green. Often the leaf margin is wavy. The white flowers, notable for their four petals and a bundle of stamens, appear from July into October. They may be followed by black-purple, edible fruits. Unfortunately, the tree is not sufficiently hardy to be widely used outdoors. Its suitability is therefore limited to atria, conservatories, inner gardens, etc. It can be planted in any soil, provided it is sufficiently moist but still well-drained, so that no stagnant water remains around the roots. Preferably plant in full sun, although light shade is also tolerated.
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evergreen, elliptical, 1-2,5 cm, glossy dark green
Flowers
white, solitary, 2 cm tall, July-October
Fruits
berry-shaped, 0,8-1cm, shiny black purple, edible
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
any, if well-drained
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
8b (-9,4,5 to -6,7 °C)
Wind resistance
moderate
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant)
Application
tree containers, patio gardens
Origin
U.S. National Arboretum, Washington D.C., USA, 1994
Synonyms
Myrtus luma, Myrtus apiculata
clay soilloamy soilpeaty soilsandy soiltolerates no pavinglight-loving3rd size, smaller than 6 metresdense crowngreenwhiteaverage growingall speciesvaluable for bees (honey plant)non-toxic (usually)Capricious growing
Frequently asked questions
Luma apiculata
Luma apiculata can eventually reach a height of 5-6 m (15 m), depending on the site and climate conditions.
Luma apiculata is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 5-6 m (15 m), depending on the site and climate conditions.
The right time to plant Luma apiculata is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Luma apiculata with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.
Luma apiculata blooms in july, august, september, october.