Hoheria sexstylosa ‘Snow White’ (Long Leaved Lacebark)

We’ve remarked elsewhere (but not too far away from this entry) that some of the splendid New Zealand endemics are a slight risk over here given our unreliable UK winters. What mavericks we are pitting such bold plant choices against our climate (which we’re told over and over is becoming warmer) And indeed they’ll sail merrily through the milder winters and even some of the harder ones thus filling you with hope…right up until a particularly venomous January leaps out of nowhere and absolutely nails them. Not this one.

This beautiful evergreen large shrub (or small tree) from New Zealand is a cultivar and can be relied upon to thrive year-round given you pay attention to a couple of caveats (worth it). Like the species type, protect them from the worst of the north-easterlies and give them space and plenty of it and you’ll find it seems to enjoy our climate just fine. That space is crucial though, and it’ll need room to really reach its potential and grow into a truly elegant form.

Does oodles of blinding cadmium-white flowers from July to August and these are smashing against the glossy pale green foliage, looking almost as if it’s snowed gently in Summer. That final, natural form we discussed is a roughly pyramidal one and it will reach 4 metres over a 20 year period. A fine and unusual specimen tree to plant as a focal point, with enough open fluffiness to let plenty of light through and bags of blossom after all the more usual Malus and Prunus have finished.

Give ‘Snow White’ sun to dappled shade and definitely best in a spot sheltered from the chilliest north winds. Reliable, yes, but remember the caveat about shelter: you yourself would likely tolerate a biting north-easterly while waiting for the 36 to Penge because you’re made of stern stuff.  But you’re still glad of the bus shelter, aren’t you?  Good on sand, loam or chalk, preferring moist but well drained soil.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.