Colletia paradoxa is a very special ornamental shrub, belongs to the buckthorn family, which is fairly rare. A synonym for this plant is the Colletia cruciata. This shrub, originally from Uruguay and Argentina, grows to a maximum height of 250/300 cm. The erratic growth is very slow and in the spring the plant temporarily gets some small leaves on the new runners.
Pruning is not necessary quickly. If a branch needs to be shortened for topiary, this can be done in the spring.
The side branches have remarkable triangular thorns that appear to be fused into the branch itself. The Colletia paradoxa likes a sunny spot to partial shade and does well on any soil.
It is an excellent container plant because it grows very slowly, 1 meter in 10 years. Repotting only needs to be done every 5 years to a slightly larger pot. This Colletia also tolerates heat very well and looks great in a sunny place on your terrace.
In late autumn from late September, small bell-shaped flowers appear in clusters on the side branches. These flowers have a strong and delicious scent of sweet lilies. Colletia paradoxa continues to bloom into winter.
In winter the Colletia paradoxa is evergreen. It can be planted in the garden in a sheltered sunny place, but protect the plant during a long period of frost by covering the plant.
Overwinter as a container plant above freezing point.
Winter hardiness zone 8b (-7ºC).