Luculia

Rubiaceae

Luculia

Deciduous and evergreen shrubs and small trees; perfumed tubular winter flowers.

Uses

Conservatory plant, greenhouse plant, wall shrub in mildest of temperate gardens.

Culture

Protected position, semi-shade with protection from cold and hot afternoon sun; prefers fertile, freely draining organic soil. Water freely in summer and apply fortnightly liquid feeds. Ventilate plants under glass during summer and autumn.

Propagation

Seed or semi hardwood cuttings. Plant seed in spring and maintain temperature to 13-16 degrees C. Take cuttings to 7.5-10cm in late spring and maintain temperature to 16 degrees C.

Cultivars

There are five species

L. gratissima is relatively common in cultivation. It grows to 2m; ovate, opposite green leaves to 20cm, terminal flower clusters to 22cm wide, sweetly fragrant mauve-pink.

Plant Health

Not hardy; avoid extreme cold or heat, may need to remain in a greenhouse or conservatory in cold temperate regions. They have few pest and disease problems, but are susceptible to root rots.

More info

Indigenous to temperate regions in East Asia.

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