Ehretia Ball

Enhance your landscape with the unique and captivating Ehretia Ball. Known for its dense, spherical shape and lush green foliage, this ornamental plant adds a touch of elegance and structure to any garden or outdoor space. The Ehretia Ball, a meticulously pruned form of Ehretia microphylla, is celebrated for its versatility and low maintenance requirements, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Ehretia microphylla
• Common Name: Philippine Tea Tree, Carmona Retusa
• Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
• Shape: Rounded, topiary-like ball
• Mature Height: 3-6 feet (can be pruned to maintain desired height and shape)
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
• Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11

Description

The Ehretia Ball is a stunning ornamental plant known for its perfectly round shape, achieved through careful pruning and training. Its small, glossy leaves form a dense, compact canopy that retains its shape throughout the year. This plant is ideal for adding a touch of formality and sophistication to gardens, patios, and entryways.

Care Instructions

• Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily to maintain its dense foliage.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral ph. Amend with organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
• Fertilization: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain its shape. Prune lightly and frequently to encourage bushier growth and retain its spherical form.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a touch of elegance and structure to gardens and outdoor spaces.
• Versatility: Suitable for container gardening, topiary art, and landscape accents.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for with minimal pruning and watering needs.

Usage Ideas

• Formal Gardens: Use as a focal point in formal garden designs or symmetrical layouts.
• Containers: Ideal for large containers on patios, balconies, or entryways, providing year-round interest.
• Topiary Art: Excellent for creating topiary shapes, adding a touch of artistry to your garden.

Bring the refined beauty and structured elegance of the Ehretia Ball into your garden or outdoor space. Its unique shape and easy care make it a standout choice for enhancing your landscape with a touch of sophistication and charm.