Grewia occidentalis

This shrub or a small tree has a unique feature - branches can be growing flat, creating a perfect screen.

An evergreen shrub or small tree that will reach about 9 feet in nature. It makes a great specimen plant when planted in containers. Blooming Time: Lavender flowers are axillary, 1-3 on slender peduncles from spring-fall. Individual flowers are 1.5 in (35 mm) across. The plant should be kept moist for optimum growth. Fertilize 3 times a year with an acid loving plant fertilizer. The plant tends to become chlorotic so an iron supplement is recommended at least once a year. When grown in containers the plant needs to be cut back after blooming to keep a desired shape. Propagated by cuttings of new growth in spring or by seed. Seed germinate in 14-21 days at 70° F. This species is sometimes found as Grewia caffra which is a different species, very seldom found in cultivation, with yellow flowers.

Similar plants:

• Grewia asiatica, Grewia subinaequalis (Phalsa, Falsa, Sherbet Berry)
• Grewia bicolor (White Raisin)
• Grewia flavescens (Sandpaper Raisin)
• Grewia lasiocarpa (Elepants Ear Grewia, Forest Raisin, Shaggy Raisin)
• Grewia robusta (Raisin Bush)
• Grewia sp. (Raisin Bush)
• Grewia vernicosa (Raisin Bush)
• Grewia villosa (Mallow Raisin)
• Kleinhovia hospita, Kleinhovia serrata, Grewia meyeniana (Guest Tree,Tan-ag)