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Tropical Hedging Plants
Tropical Hedging Plants. Species suitable for growing into hedges tend to be fast growing and respond to pruning with vigorous new growth. Hedges should be pruned with the base wider than the top to allow light to penetrate equally. Because hedges are pruned regularly they should be fed three times a year with micronutrient-enriched fertilizer to...
Species suitable for growing into hedges tend to be fast growing and respond to pruning with vigorous new growth. Hedges should be pruned with the base wider than the top to allow light to penetrate equally. Because hedges are pruned regularly they should be fed three times a year with micronutrient-enriched fertilizer to replenish lost nutrients. Cultivars of species such as hibiscus and bougainvillea can be grown together as a hedge to create an attractive multicolored flower effect.
Natal Plum
The Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa) is a vigorous woody shrub from South Africa that produces edible fruits. It can reach 18 feet with strong stems carrying sharp thorns and small, oval leaves. Natal plum tolerates high winds and salty air and can be pruned heavily into a hedge. It can survive down to temperatures of 25 degrees Fahrenheit and thrives in full sun.
Hibiscus
The prolific Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is grown the world over for its large and colorful flowers and its tolerance to pruning. It's a large shrub that can reach 15 feet in height. Cultivars with white, yellow, orange, red and pink flowers are available as well as ornate double flowers. Hibiscus bushes produce more flowers if they are regularly pruned and can be cut into a hedge with ease.
Feijoa
Related to the guava and with similar shaped fruit, the feijoa (Feijoa sellowiana) comes from Brazil but is hardy down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not fussy about soil type and will grow in full sun or partial shade. Feijoa bushes can grow to 15 feet tall and wide and can be pruned into a hedge. Both the purple flowers and the green fruit are edible.
Bougainvillea
South American bougainvilleas are rampant scrambling shrubs that can be grown as pergola plants or pruned into a hedge. The flowers are produced on new growth so heavy pruning keeps them in flower. Bougainvilleas thrive in full sun and need plenty of water during the summer. There are hybrids that lack the thorns of the wild species and are more suitable for garden planting and hedges.
Orange Jasmine
From Southeast Asia, orange jasmine (Murraya paniculata) is a perennial evergreen shrub up to 12 feet tall. Related to the orange tree, it has glossy, orange leaves and produces abundant clusters of white, scented flowers followed by small, red fruit. Orange jasmine responds well to pruning and forms a dense hedge. It is not fussy about soil type and thrives in full sun.
