Lophomyrtus bullata aka Rama Rama

Lophomyrtus bullata is an evergreen shrub or small tree from New Zealand. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It grows on North Island and parts of South Island. Its wild habitat runs from coastal woods to mountain forests. It often grows along forest edges. Records from South Island place it mainly in the north. Rama rama is one of its common names.

The plant forms a rounded crown with dense, bushy growth. Garden plants reach 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall. Their spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. They take around 10–20 years to reach full size. Soft hairs cover the stems. The round leaves have deep puckers between their veins. Each leaf measures about 0.1 feet [0.03 metres] long. Young leaves have a bronze tint. They turn glossy dark green as they age. The evergreen leaves provide interest beyond the flowering season.

White, cup-shaped flowers open in summer. Each flower spans about 0.03 feet [0.01 metres]. Dark berries usually follow the flowers. These oval fruits become a deep red-black shade. Each berry holds many seeds. PFAF lists the fruit as edible, either raw or cooked. Fully ripe fruit has a taste like guava. PFAF reports no known hazards, but this is not a full safety assessment. It lists no known medicinal or other practical uses.

The RHS recommends a sheltered site with partial shade. Soil should stay moist while allowing excess water to drain. Its profile lists sand, loam, clay and chalk as suitable. It also accepts acid, neutral and alkaline soils. Under glass, use peat-free compost with a loam base. Give the plant bright light filtered from direct sun. Water well during growth, and reduce watering in winter. The RHS also recommends a balanced liquid feed each month during growth. Its H2 rating means the plant cannot survive freezing. PFAF lists USDA zones 8–11; the two ratings differ in their cold guidance.

The RHS suggests containers, patios, wall borders and growing under glass. PFAF also places it at sunny woodland edges and beside south- or west-facing walls. The RHS reports few routine pest or disease problems. Grow new plants from seed as soon as it ripens. Keep seed at 13–18°C for propagation. Semi-ripe cuttings with a heel offer another method in summer.