Often confused with and/or sold under the name Cleyera japonica (which see).
Not recommended north of USDA zone 7, AHS heat zone 8, and the warmer parts of Sunset zone 32, but David Francko in Palms Won't Grow Here (2003) asserts that it can work in USDA zone 6.
Noted for neat/clean habit and unusually dark green foliage, but new growth tends to be red, and mature foliage may turn back to red in cold and/or sun (and if both simultaneously, flat-out winterburn may occur). Sympodial branching with leaves often appearing whorled at tips. Pinch (tip-prune) for increased density, particularly when planted in shade.
Chlorotic in alkaline soils. Salt tolerance is debated. Tolerates heavy pruning if necessary.
Pollen may be allergenic.
'Variegata' has stable whitish leaf margins turning pink in winter.
Sources: UFL, Sunset, Dirr, AHS, NCSU, Missouri BG, Odenwald/Turner.
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