Dodonaea viscosa (Ake Ake)

How to grow a Ake Ake (Dodonaea viscosa) hedge

The Ake Ake (Dodonaea viscosa) hedge spacing is generally 50 cm between the plants. If you want the hedge to fill in more quickly, you can reduce the spacing to 40 cm. However, going wider than 50 cm will have two effects. The first is that the gap between the plants at the base will be harder to fill in, and this can cause frustration. The second is that the plants will tend to grow wider rather than upward. At a closer spacing, the plants compete for light, and in doing so, they push each other upwards. Therefore, The Plant Company recommends a spacing of 40-50 cm to achieve an impressive hedge. Start trimming the sides of the hedge early if you want a thicker and denser hedge.

What are landscaping uses for Dodonaea viscosa?

The Dodonaea viscosa is commonly trimmed into a hedge, grown as an informal hedge, included in mixed or native plantings, used for riparian planting, grown as a screen, or planted as a backdrop for smaller plants. The versatility and excellent aesthetics of this Ake Ake make it a popular landscaping option.

What is the Dodonaea viscosa growth rate?

Dodonaea viscosa has a moderate to fast growth rate, depending on environmental conditions. Under ideal circumstances, such as with full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering, it can grow 30 to 60 cm per year. Growth tends to be faster in warmer climates and with occasional pruning to encourage a bushier, more compact form. While it’s relatively low-maintenance, providing consistent care will help Dodonaea viscosa reach its full potential, typically maturing at about 2-3 metres tall. However, it can grow even taller in optimal conditions.

Dodonaea viscosa (Ake Ake) Plants For Sale

The Plant Company has the best Ake Ake plants for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants, and our logistics team packs them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive, and the quality is exceptional. Let us take care of your Ake Ake needs and impress you with both our products and service!

Dodonaea viscosa toxicity

Dodonaea viscosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals, making it a safe choice for gardens where children or pets may be present. There are no widely reported cases of poisoning or adverse effects from contact or ingestion, and it is not listed as toxic by major plant toxicity databases. However, as with many ornamental plants, it's still best to discourage pets or children from chewing on the leaves or other parts of the plant, as individual sensitivities can vary and consuming large quantities of any plant material can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Overall, Dodonaea viscosa is considered a low-risk, non-toxic plant suitable for landscaping use.

What are the common names for Dodonaea viscosa?

Dodonaea viscosa is known by several common names, reflecting its widespread use and distribution in various regions. The most common names include Ake Ake, hop bush (or hopbush), sticky hop bush, and varnish tree. In Australia, it's often referred to as broadleaf hop bush, while in Hawaii, it's known as ‘a‘ali‘i. The name "hop bush" originates from the resemblance of its seed capsules to those used in brewing hops. These common names can vary slightly depending on the local language and regional usage, but they all refer to the same hardy, adaptable shrub.