What hardiness zones is Escallonia spp. suitable for?

Escallonia spp. is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a.

What are the sun requirements for Escallonia spp.?

Escallonia spp. requires full sun to partial shade.

How much water does Escallonia spp. need?

Escallonia spp. has moderate, drought tolerant once established water needs.

1 / 5

Broadleaf Evergreen Shrubs

Escallonia spp.

escallonia

EscalloniaceaeSouth America

At a Glance

Typeshrub

Habitcompact, densely branched

Foliageevergreen

Height3-8 feet

Width3-6 feet

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

7a - 10a

Zone 7a

Zone 7b

Zone 8a

Zone 8b

Zone 9a

Zone 9b

Zone 10a

These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.

Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Escallonia spp. encompasses a diverse genus of evergreen shrubs known for their glossy, leathery foliage and abundant clusters of small, tubular flowers. These compact to medium-sized shrubs typically feature alternate, simple leaves that are dark green and lustrous on the upper surface, often with serrated margins. The leaves are generally oval to oblong in shape, ranging from 1-3 inches in length, and may have a slightly sticky or resinous texture. The flowers of Escallonia spp. are borne in terminal or axillary clusters called panicles or racemes, creating showy displays that attract pollinators. Individual flowers are small, tubular, and five-petaled, typically measuring about 1/4 to 1/2 inch across. The shrubs produce dense, twiggy growth with reddish-brown stems that become woody with age. Many species and cultivars are prized for their extended blooming period and ability to flower on new growth, making them excellent choices for repeat flowering throughout the growing season.

Native Range

Escallonia spp. is native to South America, primarily found in the Andes Mountains and coastal regions of Chile, Argentina, Peru, and southern Brazil. These shrubs naturally occur in mountainous areas, coastal cliffs, and scrublands where they have adapted to a range of elevations and climatic conditions.

Suggested Uses

mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, coastal gardens, informal hedges, container growing, cut flowers, pollinator gardens

How to Identify

Escallonia spp. can be identified by its glossy, evergreen leaves with serrated margins and slightly sticky texture. Key identification features include the small, tubular flowers arranged in dense clusters at branch tips, the reddish-brown young stems, and the overall compact, densely branched growth habit. The leaves are typically dark green above and paler beneath, with prominent veining. Unlike many similar shrubs, escallonias often have a slight resinous fragrance when leaves are crushed, and the bark on mature stems develops a characteristic flaking pattern.

Appearance

Bloom Information

late spring through fall, with peak flowering in summer

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

white, pink, red, or rose-pink

Foliage Description

glossy dark green with serrated margins

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

6.0-7.5

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate, drought tolerant once established

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

2-3 years

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Escallonia spp. requires well-draining soil and benefits from regular watering during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, these shrubs are quite drought tolerant but perform best with occasional deep watering during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In areas with harsh winters, provide protection from cold winds and consider covering with burlap if temperatures drop significantly below the hardiness range.

Pruning

Escallonia spp. should be pruned immediately after the main flowering period in late summer or early fall to avoid removing next year's flower buds. Light pruning to maintain shape and remove spent flower clusters can be done throughout the growing season. For rejuvenation, remove up to one-third of the oldest branches annually. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will encourage continued blooming. Avoid heavy pruning in late fall or winter, as this can reduce cold hardiness and remove flowering wood.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Escallonia spp. is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, as with any plant material, large quantities should not be consumed, and individuals with plant allergies should handle with care.