PHILLYREA ANGUSTIFOLIA

Phillyrea angustifolia is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Oleaceae family, typical of the Mediterranean scrub and highly appreciated for its rusticity, thin and leathery foliage and its resistance to drought. It is a native plant of the Mediterranean area, often used both in naturalistic contexts and in ornamental gardening projects thanks to its adaptability and discreet elegance. The growth habit is compact, dense and naturally tidy, with dense branching that also makes it ideal for informal hedges or as an isolated specimen. The leaves are narrow, linear-lanceolate, bright dark green on the upper side and lighter underneath. The fine texture of the foliage gives the plant a sober but refined appearance, perfectly in tune with Mediterranean or contemporary gardens. Flowering occurs in spring: small greenish-white flowers, gathered in tiny clusters, appear in the axils of the leaves. Although not particularly showy from an ornamental point of view, they are melliferous and attract bees and pollinating insects. These may be followed by small dark drupes, similar to olives, not edible but of discrete ornamental value. Phillyrea angustifolia grows slowly, generally reaching a height of 2-3 meters, although in favorable environments it can exceed 4 meters. It is an extremely resistant plant: it tolerates prolonged drought, poor and calcareous soils, salty winds and sunny exposures. It also adapts to stony or shallow soils, as long as they are well drained. It resists the cold, pruning and urban pollution well, making it suitable for city or coastal gardens. Due to its resistance, low water requirements and landscape value, Phillyrea angustifolia is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, discreet evergreen shrub that is suitable for difficult environmental conditions, without sacrificing a certain natural elegance.