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Eugenia dysenterica

Cagaita, Cagaiteira

Eugenia dysenterica is an attractive evergreen tree valued for its dense green foliage, white spring flowers, and colourful yellow fruit. It develops into a handsome specimen for New Zealand gardens and can also be maintained as a hedge or screen with regular trimming. The edible berries add seasonal interest after flowering, while the evergreen canopy provides structure throughout the year. Eugenia dysenterica is easy to grow in a sunny, well drained position and suits gardeners wanting a distinctive tree with ornamental appeal, useful foliage, and manageable maintenance requirements.

Eugenia dysenterica yellow fruit on a tree.

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Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Trees
Height:7.00 m
Spread:3.00 m
Flowering time:Spring
Tolerances:
Garden uses:Hedging, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles:Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asCagaita, Cagaiteira
Sku16031

How to grow Eugenia dysenterica in NZ

Eugenia dysenterica grows best in full sun on a well drained site. Prepare the soil before planting and water regularly while the root system becomes established. Once established, the tree can tolerate dry periods and moderate frost, making it suitable for many New Zealand growing conditions. Avoid positions where water remains around the roots for long periods. A warm, open site will encourage healthy growth, flowering, and fruit production. Mulching around the root zone can help conserve moisture and reduce competition from weeds during establishment.

Eugenia dysenterica care tips

Eugenia dysenterica is a low maintenance tree once established. Water young plants regularly during dry weather, then reduce watering as the roots develop and the tree becomes more resilient. Apply a general garden fertiliser in spring to support fresh growth, flowering, and fruiting. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape or to encourage denser growth when using the plant as a hedge. Remove damaged or unwanted branches cleanly. Good drainage and plenty of sunlight are the main requirements for keeping Eugenia dysenterica healthy and attractive.

Eugenia dysenterica size, spacing, and growth rate

Eugenia dysenterica typically grows to around 7 m tall and 3 m wide, forming a dense evergreen canopy. Its growth rate is medium, and regular trimming can be used to control the final size or create a more compact hedge. For specimen planting, allow enough room for the tree to develop its natural spread without crowding nearby plants or structures. When establishing a hedge or screen, spacing plants around 1.5 to 2 m apart will encourage the canopies to merge as they mature. Adequate sunlight helps maintain strong, balanced growth.

Landscaping uses for Eugenia dysenterica

Eugenia dysenterica is a versatile landscaping tree that can be grown as a striking specimen, trimmed into a hedge, or used to create screening and structure. Its dense evergreen foliage provides year round interest, while white spring flowers and yellow fruit add seasonal colour. It works well beside lawns, around pool areas, in larger garden beds, and within mixed landscape plantings. Regular pruning allows Eugenia dysenterica to be shaped to suit more formal designs, while its natural form is ideal for relaxed gardens where a leafy ornamental tree is required.

Why buy Eugenia dysenterica from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company is NZ's most trusted plant nursery, supplying quality plants for gardens and landscaping projects throughout New Zealand. Our Eugenia dysenterica plants are carefully grown and selected for health, vigour, and strong establishment. Strict quality standards and careful packing help ensure plants arrive in excellent condition and ready to grow. When you buy from The Plant Company, you can order online with confidence and benefit from expert growing advice, fast delivery, and free shipping on qualifying orders over $150.

Questions and Answers

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