Escallonia 'French White'

A vigorous and elegant evergreen shrub that excels as a hedging plant in coastal or sheltered inland UK gardens. 'French White' is particularly noted for its upright, bushy habit and glossy, dark green leaves that provide an excellent year-round screen. From mid-summer through to early autumn, it produces a profusion of white flowers, often tinged with a delicate pale pink, which are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. It is relatively fast-growing and can easily be maintained at a height of 1.5 to 2.5 metres. While it is hardy in most parts of the UK (RHS H4), it appreciates protection from freezing winds, which can scorch the foliage. It performs exceptionally well in well-drained soil and is highly resistant to salt spray, making it a premier choice for seaside boundaries. Regular pruning after flowering helps maintain a tight, formal shape and encourages vigorous new growth.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Well-drained loam or sandy soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.