Alyxia spp.
South and Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific
Overview
Alyxia spp. is a genus of about 70 evergreen shrubs and woody climbers in the family Apocynaceae, ranging across South and Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands. Habit varies from low, dense coastal shrubs 0.5-2 m (1.5-6.5 ft) tall to twining vines several metres long. The leathery leaves are arranged in opposite pairs or whorls of three to four, 1-8 cm (0.4-3 in) long, and the stems carry a milky latex. Small tubular flowers, white to cream or pale yellow and about 5-10 mm wide, open in the leaf axils and are sweetly scented. The fruit is a chain of fleshy orange to black oval drupes, each segment 0.5-1.5 cm (0.2-0.6 in) long. As the leaves and bark dry they release a vanilla-like coumarin scent, which has made A. stellata, the Hawaiian maile, a traditional lei plant. Alyxia spp. grows on coastal dunes, in heath, and in forest understorey, tolerating salt wind and poor soils. Most species are frost-tender and slow-growing, and the genus needs sharp drainage and grows poorly in prolonged wet.
Native Range
Native to South and Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific islands, growing on coastal dunes, in heathland, and in forest understorey.Suggested Uses
Grown as low coastal hedging, rockery, and seaside shrubs where salt and wind limit other plants, and the fragrant A. stellata is trained as a vine. Dried stems and leaves are woven into scented leis and garlands.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'6" - 6'7"
Width/Spread3'3" - 6'7"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight