Alyxia ruscifolia
Chainfruit, Prickly Alyxia, Sea-BoxFamily: Apocynaceae
Origin: Australia
Alyxia ruscifolia, commonly known as Chainfruit is a large native shrub, widely grown for its white, off-white fragrant flowers. It typically grows from 5-10 ft tall and 2-5 ft wide and is widely grown in the USDA zones from 9-11. Chainfruit is an evergreen shrub that is well adapted to survive in dry climates and can tolerate temperatures down to 30F. It prefers full sun to light shade and regular, moderate water.
The leaves of Chainfruit are glossy and leathery and are shaped in whorls of 3-6 with slightly recurved margins. The plant blooms in late summer, where its distinctive white, off-white flowers are richly fragrant, making it a popular garden and landscaping choice.
When planting in colder regions, care needs to be taken with drainage and temperatures to ensure survival. Chainfruit prefers soils that are well-drained, with moderate to low water. To ensure best growth, regular water is essential and fertilizing once a year will help it to thrive.
Similar plants:
