Shrubs for Taupo Gardens

Taupo Times, Volume I, Issue 18, 14 May 1952, Page 6

Shrubs for Taupo Gardens

(By

"Flora")

[Taupo gardeners with problems on their minds are invited to send these to this column for advice.] As a help to those who are laying out their gardens this winter, I have decided to divide the lists of shrubs and trees, recommended for growing in Taupo under the followIng headings. (We have already dealt with those that have brilliant autumn colourings) 1. Those that have displays of berries or fruits. 2. Those that are noted for their fioral displays at some time of the year. 3. Spectacular foliage other than autumn colouring. 4. And to end, a small list of not so well-known shrubs, which, as far as I am. concerned, have yet to prove their liking for Taupo conditions. Berrying shrubs appear to do exeeptionally well in Taupo; most of them being at the height of their glory in the fall of the year. It is surprising how long they remain on the shrubs — generally, till our friend the birds, whose larder at this time of the year runs low find them. Then I fear feasting is the order of the day. Arbritus Linido — The Irish Strawberry Tree, 15 feet. This shrub does particularly well in Taupo; of bushy growth, with dark green foliage, creamy bell-shaped flowers; followed by showy orange-red, strawberry like fruits. Stands the wind. Aucuba Japonica — Suitable for a shady position, but must be planted jn pairs, if you want themi to fruit. They then have large red berries. The varigated one is particularly showy. Six feet. Berberis — Many shrubs of this family bears berries; they are low growing — 6ft. and hardy. Berberis Wilsonae — This species berries well; and the foliage also eoTours. Two feet. Berberis, Autumn iCheer— -Btiight fire-flame foliage. Free berrying. Four feet. Cotoneaster — This family does well in Taupo. In fact they grow wild in many vacant sections. Unfortunately a showy one serotina is subject to fire blight, which is rather prevalent here just now. But other members don't seem to be affected. Cotonaster conspirva — -An ideal eovering for a bank, as of prostrate habit, bearing, in autumn, masses of bright red berries. Cotoneaster Harroviana — Very |attractive with arching branches,, and bimches of berries whicii the birds do not favour. Crataegu-s, thorn — This family grows easily. In fact they are rather inclined to take charge, so give them ample room. Not good subjects for the shrubery. Certainly very showy in the autumn. Evonymus europoeus, Spmdle Tree — Does well in Tauoo: and its orange pink berries are a delight — Six feet. •Pvrahantha, evergreen thorns — Ciosely related to the Crataegu? family, but needs lots of room; rather spreading and decidly pricky felTows. Pyracantha coccinea — Beavs mass>es of coral-red berris in the autumn. Ten feet. Pyrus— -This is the Crab-apple, one ' should be in every garden; they do well here in Taupo. A large family, it is hard to choose the best. Pyras Gorgeous. $ 5ft. Pyrus John Downie — The apples on this variety are larger, with a

I — i bright flush on one side. Fruit does ! not stay on the tree for long; but very showy. Ten feet. Pyrus Eleyi — This has the coppery foliage with small, deep wine coloured fruits. .Stranvaesia Davidiana — 6ft. Plas small hawthorn-like flovrers; followed by bright red berris. Although an s 1 evergreen, some leaves turn r,ed in i > the autumn.