Nyman's eucryphia Eucryphia × nymansensis

Water

For the Tasmanian leatherwood, regular watering is crucial, especially during the first few years after planting to establish a strong root system. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done gently around the base of the plant to avoid disturbing the roots, providing about 1 gallon of water per week under normal conditions. However, during hot, dry spells, the plant may require additional water, increasing to 2 gallons per week to prevent stress.

Light

Tasmanian leatherwood prefers a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one where it can enjoy morning sunlight with some afternoon shade, or dappled sunlight throughout the day, to avoid the intense heat of midday sun which may stress the plant.

Temperature

The Tasmanian leatherwood thrives in moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range of conditions. Ideally, the temperature should be between 50°F and 70°F for optimal growth. The plant can withstand occasional temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F but prolonged exposure to these extremes can be harmful.

Pruning

Prune Tasmanian leatherwood to maintain shape and encourage healthy growth, usually after the flowering season ends. Selective pruning can be performed to remove any dead or damaged branches and to thin out dense growth, allowing light and air to reach the inner branches. Pruning should take place every year or every other year, depending on the plant's development and desired size.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

The Nymansay requires well-drained, moderately fertile soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. A soil mix consisting of equal parts loam, leaf mold, compost and sharp sand is recommended to provide the right conditions for root growth and drainage.

Repotting

Nymansay, being a large shrub or small tree, is not typically repotted. It's planted in the garden where repotting is unnecessary. However, if grown in a container, repotting every few years in early spring is advisable as the plant matures.

Humidity & Misting

Nymansay thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, similar to what it would experience in its native woodlands. Maintaining a humidity level of 50-70% is ideal for this plant's well-being.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow Nymansay by a sunny window, in moist, acidic soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant Nymansay in partial shade, moist, well-drained, acidic soil.

• Hardiness zone

  8-10 USDA

Life cycle

Eucryphia × nymansensis, commonly known as Nymansay Eucryphia, begins its life cycle as a seed, typically requiring stratification to break dormancy before it can germinate in conducive soil conditions. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself, forming roots and shoots that will eventually become a young plant. The juvenile plant phase is characterized by rapid growth and the development of the distinctive foliage, with the plant eventually reaching maturity and forming a woody trunk and branching structure in several years. As it matures, Nymansay Eucryphia starts to bear flowers, which are typically large, white, and fragrant, attracting pollinators including bees and butterflies. After successful pollination, seeds are produced in capsules, completing the reproductive cycle. The mature Eucryphia × nymansensis can live for several decades, with flower production typically occurring annually throughout its lifecycle in late summer.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Eucryphia × nymansensis, commonly known as Nyman's eucryphia, is often propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is typically conducted in late summer, after the current season's growth has begun to mature. Cuttings about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long with several leaves are taken from the current year's growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped into rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then planted in a pot filled with a mix of perlite and peat moss. It's important to maintain a humid environment for the cutting, which can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a humidity dome. The cutting should be kept in indirect light until roots have developed, which typically takes several weeks to a few months.