Re: Crinodendron hookerianum

Tristram, both this and the white Crinodendron patagua are utterly
easy in SW England.  Slightly acidic soil and a moderate amount of
root moisture are all they require.  Highly wind tolerant, it takes
weeks of biting easterlies, heavily laden with salt before the leaves
scorch badly.  In that respect it is as tough as the holm oak -
Quercus ilex.  You can clip it or allow it to grow naturally - the
choice is yours.  As long as you clip immediately after flowering, you
will get a good show every year, even from a young plant.  

Given a more gentle aspect and a humus rich, constantly moist (but
well-drained) soil. it readily develops into a handsome small tree to
around 18 feet or so.  Utterly spectacular when dripping with
countless thousands of its large, heavy, waxy-red flowers.  If you can
grow Rhodos and Camellias with any modicum of success, you can
certainly grow this.  

Dave Poole
TORQUAY  UK
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