Eucryphia lucida aka Leatherwood

Eucryphia lucida is an evergreen shrub or small tree from Tasmania. It belongs to the Cunoniaceae family. Its common names include leatherwood and pinkwood. In the wild, it grows in forests at low elevations. It often grows beside rivers. Its native range has a temperate climate. This species is not native to Britain or Ireland.

In gardens, it forms a tall, narrow crown with upright growth. Garden height ranges from 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Plants take 20–50 years to reach their full size. The oblong leaves stay on the plant year-round. They reach about 0.16 feet [0.05 metres] long. Their upper sides are dark green, with a blue-grey underside. This contrast adds interest beyond the flowering season.

White flowers hang from the branches around midsummer. Each bloom can span about 0.16 feet [0.05 metres]. The flowers have a scent and draw visiting bees. Bees gather both nectar and pollen from them. The blooms and lasting foliage suit informal garden settings. This species can also form a hedge or screen. Suggested sites include courtyards, cottage gardens, and borders beside walls. It also has a place in woodland gardens. The RHS includes coastal gardens among its suggested settings.

Choose full sun for the crown, but shade the roots. Give it fertile soil rich in humus. Keep the soil moist while allowing excess water to drain. Clay, loam, and sand can all suit this plant. The soil should be acidic or neutral. Shelter it from cold winds that dry the leaves. The RHS rates its hardiness as H4. This covers minimum temperatures of about −10 to −5°C. PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10. Little or no pruning may be needed.

The RHS reports few pest problems, though honey fungus can occur. Raise new plants from seed or summer semi-ripe cuttings. Sow ripe seed in late winter in a cold frame. Keep young plants in a cool greenhouse through winter. PFAF lists no known edible uses and no known hazards. That lack of reported hazards does not establish food safety. It records antiseptic and styptic uses, but gives medicinal value a low rating. PFAF does not flag this species as weedy.