Escallonia

Escallonia is a genus of shrubs and trees in the Escalloniaceae family. They are native to North and South America. Currently valid species in Escallonia are: Widely cultivated and commonly used as a hedging plant, especially in coastal areas, escallonias grow about 30 cm (12 in) per year, reaching 1.5–3 m (5–10 ft) in height, with arching branches of small, oval, glossy green leaves. Flowering from June to October (in the Northern Hemisphere), it has masses of small pink or crimson flowers, with a honey fragrance. It is best grown in full sun with some shelter. Some varieties are not fully hardy in all areas. Numerous cultivars and hybrids have been developed, of which the following have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit: