Escallonia 'Apple Blossom'

Escallonia 'Apple Blossom' is an elegant evergreen shrub that is widely regarded as one of the best hedging plants for coastal gardens in the UK, due to its high tolerance for salt spray. It features small, glossy, dark green leaves which form a dense and attractive screen. In early to mid-summer, it produces clusters of dainty, tubular flowers that are a delightful pale pink and white bicolour, bearing a resemblance to apple blossom. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract a variety of bees and butterflies. While it is hardy in many parts of the UK, it prefers a sheltered spot in colder inland areas, as it can be susceptible to damage from very hard frosts or cold, drying winds. It grows relatively quickly and responds well to pruning, which should be carried out after flowering to maintain a neat shape. It is a versatile choice for both formal and informal evergreen hedges.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained loam or sand.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.