HOPBUSH --Dodonea viscosa--

AKA "Ake Ake" (Maori word meaning Forever & Ever). Shrubby tree in the soapberry family, can grow to 15', and be pruned to shape a tree or hedge. Drought, cold and sun tolerant - while generally considered to be frost-sensitive, we just tested these in pots during our recent freeze. Keep this one in mind for a landscaping plant that is useful for the body and the landscape! The list of uses for this plant is almost endless! Traditionally used to flavor beer, medicinally to treat digestive issues, leaves chewed for toothache, juice as a styptic, and the aromatic leaves were burned for funerary incense. Flowers used for leis in Hawaii, and used for lactation issues in New Guinea. Wood is durable and tough, excellent for tool handles and other projects - contains a sticky resin that make the branches great for torches. Wonder plant! Hardy to about 15F once well established. Tolerates poor soil and suitable for container.