Care of the shrub Phillyrea angustifolia or Jasmine box |
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The genus Phillyrea, family Oleaceae, comprises 80 species of shrubs or trees native to the Mediterranean region, Madeira and the Canary Islands. Some species are: Phillyrea angustifolia, Phillyrea latifolia, Phillyrea buxifolia, Phillyrea aeolica, Phillyrea bolivaris, Phillyrea caroli. Common names: Jasmine box, Narrow-leaved mock privet. This species is native to Western Mediterranean. They are evergreen shrubs with thin and flexible branches that reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. They have leathery, dark green, opposite and narrow leaves similar to those of the olive tree. They produce fragrant flowers in the axils of the leaves during spring. The fruits are fleshy, glossy black and similar to olives. Jasmine box is used in gardens by the sea forming hedges or barriers and in low maintenance garden areas with poor soils. Phillyrea angustifolia prefers full sun exposure but also grows in semi-shade. It resists frosts down to -8 ºC (17.6 ºF). Narrow-leaved mock privet grows in any type of soil, be it sandy, calcareous, saline, poor or clayey. Jasmine box is a very resistant to drought plant; water moderately waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Phillyrea angustifolia does not need special fertilizers but appreciates a light contribution of compost in early spring. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact appearance. Narrow-leaved mock privet is a resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases. Phillyrea angustifolia is propagated from semi-woody cuttings, in late summer, planted in moist soil. The seeds can be sown by removing (after drying) the fleshy part but it's a slow process. |
Images of the shrub Phillyrea angustifolia or Jasmine box |
 Phillyrea angustifolia |