dwarf evergreen trees
Dwarf evergreen trees are the ultimate choice for transforming New Zealand gardens—big or small—into lush, year-round sanctuaries. Perfectly suited to small gardens, courtyards, containers, and mixed borders, these compact conifers and shrubs offer structure, colour, and privacy without overwhelming your landscape. Whether you’re looking to add texture, create low hedges, or simply enjoy low-maintenance greenery, dwarf evergreens fit the bill. Their restrained size and tidy form make them a favourite for both contemporary and classic garden designs.
Pittosporum 'Stephens Island' (Dwarf Karo)
Pittosporum ‘Stephens Island’ is a compact, evergreen shrub known for its dense, upright growth and attractive grey-green foliage. A hardy New Zealand native, it typically grows to around 1.5–2 metres tall, making it ideal for low hedges, borders, and coastal gardens. This variety thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly tolerant of wind, salt spray, and dry conditions. Low-maintenance and naturally tidy, ‘Stephens Island’ is an excellent choice for structured, native-themed landscapes.
Schefflera arboricola (Dwarf Umbrella Tree)
The Schefflera arboricola plant, commonly known as the Dwarf Umbrella Tree, is an evergreen shrub commonly grown as a houseplant. The foliage is mid green, glossy, and comprises of multiple, large leaflets in a fan arrangement. Outdoors it will grow to about 1 m tall and the same wide, though it can be trimmed as necessary. Indoors, the Dwarf Umbrella Tree can be contained to any desired size. Schefflera arboricola is commonly grown as a potted plant, added to tropical gardens, included in a mixed planting, planted around outdoor living areas, or used for bonsai. NB: Schefflera arboricola also has the synonymous name: Heptapleurum arboricola.
