Botanical family: Hernandiaceae

Gyrocarpus jacquini, Gyrocarpus americanus

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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This is an excellent groundcover or low growing shrub. It can reach a height of 2-5 feet and produce an ornamental foliage. It can be used for bonsai, as it has attractive small leaves and a prostate habit, growing just 2ft high.

This fast-growing plant is native to the Indomalayan region, India, China, the Philippines, Indo-China and Myanmar. It is grown in USDA Zones 10 to 11 and it is a mature cold-hardy plant, able to endure temperatures as low as 30°F for a short time.

This plant requires full sun and moderately moist soil. It is essential to create a well-draining soil mix with a higher proportion of aggregate. It will generally thrive with regular moisture, but it can tolerate some drought. You should water it regularly and then allow it to dry out before the next watering. If you'âre growing it in a pot in a cold region, be sure to bring it in the house when the temperature drops too low. During the summer months, you should fertilize it lightly every 3-4 weeks.

With its low maintenance needs, this beautiful plant will make a great addition to your garden. It's a great choice for a bonsai as well as for a groundcover or low-growing shrub. It will bring a touch of ornamental foliage to your landscape and it is cold tolerant enough to last through winter.

Hernandia sonora