Description
Form: A shrub or small tree.
Leaf retention: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate to rapid.
Mature Size: 12-15' (3.5-4.5m) high and 8-10' (2.5-3m) wide.
Flowers: Small, 0.25" (6.3mm) diameter, greenish-yellow, clustered, separate male and female flowers, some plants have only one sex, others have both sexes. In close proximity, the plant produces a strong odor when dispersing pollen.
Bloom: Early spring.
Fruit: Small seed capsules with 3-4 papery wings, 3/4" (19mm) wide, turning green to tan.
Leaves: Green, narrow, to 4" (10cm) long, glossy on top, resinous surface, reddish mid-ribs. This plant provides moderate shade. One variety, 'Purpurea', has purple leaves.
Stems: No thorns.
Roots: Aggressive. It may rob nearby plants of water.
Wildlife: Hopbush is a habitat for nesting birds and insects. The seeds attract birds.
Toxic / Danger: All parts of the plant are mildly poisonous.
Origin: Australia.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8-11. Young plants are adversely affected by prolonged freezes.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun. Avoid shady locations.
Soil: Well draining, pH 6.1-8.5 (slightly acidic to alkaline). This plant is very tolerant of soil types.
Water once established: Monthly during drought. Supplemental water speeds growth.
Prune: After the last frost, prune to remove freeze damage or to reduce size. It may be shaped as a shrub, or hedge, or trained into a tree.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed.
Uses: Ornamental, hedge, screen, erosion control.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Soapberry family (Sapindaceae). It has become widely naturalized throughout the world, especially in the tropics, sub-tropics and warm temperate regions.

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