High Quality Serissa Plants For Sale

New Zealand’s Best Serissa Plants

Growing perennial plants delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees
• Greater biodiversity is created
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• They bring colour and vibrance to a space
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have a wide range of Serissa plants of all sizes that are ready for their new home. We are here to help you find the right plant for your space. Choose from a wide variety of locally grown plants that have been propagated and bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Serissa, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Serissa

1. What does Serissa smell like?

The leaves of Serissa plants, particularly those of Serissa foetida, emit a fetid smell when crushed or bruised. This odor is due to the presence of various volatile compounds, including benzyl acetate, linalool, and isoamyl acetate. These compounds are believed to serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores and other predators.

The pungent aroma of Serissa plants has earned them the common name "fetid tree" or "vomit plant." However, the smell is not always unpleasant, and some people find it to be earthy or musky. The odour is most intense when the leaves are crushed or bruised, and it dissipates quickly in the air.

Despite its strong smell, Serissa foetida is a popular ornamental plant, valued for its attractive foliage and colourful blooms. The plant is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. However, it is important to be aware of its strong odour before planting it in a garden or indoor space.

2. Does Serissa like sun or shade?

Serissa plants generally prefer partial sun to partial shade. They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods, especially during the hottest part of the day, as this can scorch their delicate leaves.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of Serissa's light requirements:

• Partial sun: Serissa plants can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight per day, but they prefer to receive most of their light indirectly. This means placing them in a location that receives dappled sunlight or morning sun, but avoids direct afternoon sun.
• Partial shade: Serissa plants can also thrive in partial shade, where they receive filtered sunlight or indirect light for most of the day. This is a good option for locations that receive strong afternoon sun, or for indoor Serissa plants that are placed near windows with sheer curtains or blinds.

The ideal amount of light for your Serissa plant will vary depending on the specific species and your local climate. However, as a general rule, it is best to err on the side of caution and provide your plant with more light rather than less.

3. What is the common name for Serissa?

The common names for Serissa vary depending on the region and the specific species. Some of the most common names include:

• Snowrose: This name is derived from the plant's delicate, star-shaped white flowers, which resemble tiny snowflakes.
• Tree of a thousand stars: This name refers to the abundance of flowers that Serissa plants produce during their blooming season.
• Japanese boxthorn: This name alludes to the plant's small, boxwood-like leaves and its origin in Japan.
• Snowbush: Similar to "snowrose," this name highlights the plant's snow-white flowers.
• Fetid tree: This name, primarily associated with Serissa foetida, refers to the plant's strong, unpleasant odor, especially when the leaves are crushed.
• Vomit plant: This rather crude name is also associated with Serissa foetida due to its pungent aroma.

It's important to note that the use of these common names can vary, and some may be more commonly used in specific regions or for particular Serissa species. Additionally, some people may prefer to use the scientific name "Serissa" to avoid confusion and ensure clarity.

4. What is the growth rate of Serissa?

The growth rate of Serissa plants varies depending on the species, growing conditions, and care. However, in general, Serissa plants are considered to have a slow to moderate growth rate. They typically grow a few inches per year, with some species reaching heights of 3 to 5 feet (1 to 1.5 meters) in maturity.

Here are some factors that can affect the growth rate of Serissa plants:

• Species: Some Serissa species, such as Serissa foetida, tend to grow faster than others.
• Growing conditions: Serissa plants grow best in warm, sunny locations with well-drained soil. They also need regular watering and fertilization to maintain optimal growth.
• Care: Proper care, including pruning, repotting, and pest control, can help keep Serissa plants healthy and encourage their growth.

5. Can a bonsai Serissa be kept indoors?

Yes, Serissa bonsai can be kept indoors, but they will need some specific care to thrive in this environment. Here are some tips for keeping Serissa bonsai indoors:

• Provide bright, indirect light: Serissa need bright light to grow and flower properly.
• Water regularly: Serissa bonsai need to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but avoid letting it dry out completely.
• Fertilize regularly: bonsai plants need to be fertilized regularly during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
• Prune regularly: Pruning is essential for keeping bonsai in shape and preventing them from becoming overgrown. Prune your bonsai regularly.
• Repot occasionally: Serissa bonsai will need to be repotted every few years as they outgrow their pots. Use a well-draining potting mix.

6. How often do you water a bonsai Serissa?

The frequency of watering your Serissa bonsai depends on several factors, including the plant's size, pot size, potting mix, climate, and season. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should water your bonsai Serissa when the top 25 mm of soil feels dry to the touch.