Clusia Guttifera

Clusia Guttifera tree description

Clusia Guttifera (Small leaf clusia) tree is an attractive small tree with a single trunk. We also grow it as a low-branching, dense hedge. As a tree, it has an irregular but rounded crown and red peeling bark. Furthermore, the small evergreen leaves are thick, glossy, waxy, leathery, and bright green. Also, paddle-shaped leaves resemble the leaves of the southern magnolia tree. They are thick, glossy and gorgeous. The leaves contain a white latex which is a skin irritant and toxic if ingested. It is possible to write on the leaves by scratching with a fingernail into the waxy surface.

Small leaf clusia tree cultivation

In cultivation, the plant rarely flowers. It can be propagated with soft wood cuttings and by seed. Seeds should also be handled with gloves. In tree form, it is a specimen or accent plant. Clusia Guttifera is ideal as a hedge, as it is hardy once established, tolerates poor rocky soils, and is drought- and salt-tolerant, as well as pest resistant.

Because of its slow growth rate, it is easily maintained and provides a dense, handsome virtually-impenetrable privacy and noize barrier, often placed along a property boundary (learn more about how trees reduce noize).

There is also a dwarf of Clusia Guttifera ‘nana’, which is suitable for training as a charming bonsai plant.

🌳More popular and beautiful plants: Clusia Rosea hedge