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Dodonaea viscosa (Dodonaea viscosa)

Common Names: Hopbush, Akeake (New Zealand), Sticky Hopbush
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Native to Australia, New Zealand, and other subtropical regions
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree

Overview:

Dodonaea viscosa is a hardy, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree known for its upright form, vibrant foliage, and exceptional tolerance to harsh conditions. Its narrow, glossy green leaves can develop bronze or purplish tones in cooler weather, while its papery, hop-like seed capsules add visual interest. Popular for hedging, screening, and native revegetation, Dodonaea viscosa thrives in poor soils, coastal winds, and drought—making it a smart and stylish choice for low-maintenance landscapes.

Key Features:

• Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped, glossy green leaves that may turn bronze or reddish in cool temperatures.

• Flowers/Fruit: Small, inconspicuous flowers followed by distinctive papery seed capsules resembling hops; typically pink, red, or purple.

• Form & Habit: Erect, bushy growth habit with a naturally tidy form; can be pruned into a formal hedge or left to grow informally.

• Growth Rate: Fast.

• Cultural or Ecological Value: Important in native revegetation projects; provides shelter and habitat for wildlife.

Mature Size:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

Landscaping and Garden Uses:

• Informal or formal hedging and screening

• Native and coastal garden designs

• Windbreaks and erosion control

• Low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscapes

• Wildlife gardens and habitat restoration

Care and Maintenance:

• Pruning: Benefits from light pruning to shape or thicken foliage; can be clipped into a hedge or topiary

• Watering: Minimal once established; water occasionally during extended dry periods

• Feeding: Not usually necessary; can benefit from light feeding in poor soils

• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-resistant

• Additional Tips: Avoid waterlogged sites; thrives in exposed and dry environments

Fun Fact or Botanical Insight:

The common name "Hopbush" comes from the plant’s colorful seed capsules, which resemble hops used in brewing. While not related to true hops, the dried capsules were historically used as a hop substitute in beer-making by early European settlers.

Why Choose Dodonaea viscosa?

Whether you're looking for a tough screening plant, an attractive hedge, or a hardy shrub for difficult sites, Dodonaea viscosa delivers. Its fast growth, striking seed capsules, and resilience to drought, salt, wind, and poor soils make it one of the most versatile and dependable native species for Australian and New Zealand gardens.