Pera-caspi

An very unusual small tree (sometimes a large shrub) from South America, Vallea stipularis is a rather slow-growing, evergreen tree with an upright, branching, spreading habit. The leathery, ovate to heart-shaped leaves are glossy dark green, and arranged spirally round the twigs. From late spring into summer, the tree carries clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers, deep pink to crimson, and bears more in autumn. Pera-caspi is not reliably hardy, and is best grown against a warm wall in milder areas, or in a cool, shady greenhouse.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring to summer, and autumn
Hardiness: Borderline hardy
Height:  16’ (5m) Spread: 13’ (4m)