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myrtus ugni hedge

A Myrtus ugni hedge, also known as Chilean Guava or New Zealand Cranberry, is an exceptional choice for gardeners looking to grow a lush, fragrant, and edible hedge. Renowned for its compact, evergreen foliage and aromatic pink-white flowers, Myrtus ugni creates a striking visual barrier and attracts birds and bees to your garden. Its small, glossy leaves and masses of sweet, cranberry-like berries in autumn make this hedge both practical and beautiful. In New Zealand gardens, Myrtus ugni is highly adaptable, easy to shape, and performs well in both formal or relaxed landscape styles.

Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava)

Chilean Guava, New Zealand Cranberry, Ugni Berry

Myrtus ugni, commonly known as the NZ Cranberry or Chilean Guava, is an evergreen shrub grown for its lush foliage, pretty flowers, and colourful berries. It bears small, glossy, dark green leaves held densely on short stems. The real appeal of this plant is the masses of small, white flowers borne from summer through autumn, which result in red berries as it grows to 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide. Myrtus ugni is commonly used as a hedge, incorporated into a mixed planting, grown in a container, featured in a cottage garden, or added to an edible garden.

A Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava) plant with small green leaves and red berries.
  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    Shrubs
  • Height:
    1.50 m
  • Spread:
    1.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Summer, Autumn
  • Tolerances:
    Coastal, Hardy
  • Garden uses:
    Containers, Hedging, Living areas, Pool areas
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
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Myrtus ugni (Chilean Guava)

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Why choose a Myrtus ugni hedge?

Opting for a Myrtus ugni hedge provides multiple benefits beyond its good looks. This robust evergreen hedge is drought-tolerant once established and withstands light frosts, making it a practical option for a wide variety of New Zealand regions. The dense foliage offers privacy and wind protection, while the edible berries are perfect for snacking, baking, or making homemade jams. The glossy leaves release a pleasant aromatic scent when brushed against, adding another delightful dimension to any pathway or boundary.

Planting and caring for your Myrtus ugni hedge

To establish a healthy Myrtus ugni hedge, plant in well-drained soil and a spot that receives at least half a day of sun. Space plants 60-90cm apart for a dense screen. Water regularly during the first growing season, and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Lightly trim after fruiting to keep your hedge neat and encourage fresh growth. Minimal maintenance is needed once established, making Myrtus ugni a low-effort hedge with high reward. Fertilise in spring with a slow-release fertiliser for best results.

Companion plants and alternatives

To create interest and biodiversity in your garden, try pairing a Myrtus ugni hedge with other beautiful shrubs. Myrtus Glanleam Gold offers variegated gold and green foliage for a vibrant colour contrast, while Myrtus communis Variegata brings striking creamy-edged leaves. The classic Myrtus communis has a similar tidy form with white flowers, making it another excellent evergreen hedge option. If you're interested in adding some seasonal blooms, Hydrangea 'Todi' delivers summer colour. For a native alternative to a traditional hedge, consider Olearia paniculata (Akiraho) with its soft, silvery foliage.

If you're after more distinctive structure or texture, Podocarpus lawrencei (Mountain Plum Pine) or Protea Sylvia may suit your design, while Ixora Dwarf Orange provides a splash of vibrant orange flowers for a tropical touch.

Uses for Myrtus ugni hedging in your garden

A Myrtus ugni hedge is incredibly versatile. Use it to line paths, define garden beds, create a lush edible screen, or shield outdoor living areas from wind. Its compact size makes it suitable even for smaller gardens or urban courtyards. Plus, the autumn berry crop offers a unique seasonal treat for you and your local birds.

With its year-round beauty, easy care, and delicious fruit, a Myrtus ugni hedge is a smart, rewarding choice for any New Zealand garden.


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