Other Names:  Tabunoki Tree, Tabu-No-Ki, Machilus thunbergii

Description:

A massive, broadleaf evergreen with the potential to grow quite large; dainty star shaped yellow-green flowers in spring, followed by deep blue berries; lush foliage is deep green and glossy; a stunning landscape accent tree

Ornamental Features

Tabu No Ki Tree has attractive dark green evergreen foliage which emerges coppery-bronze in spring on a tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. The glossy oval leaves are highly ornamental and remain dark green throughout the winter. It features subtle clusters of chartreuse star-shaped flowers with green overtones at the ends of the branches in mid spring. The fruits are showy royal blue drupes displayed in mid summer. The fruit can be messy if allowed to drop on the lawn or walkways, and may require occasional clean-up. The rough brown bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Tabu No Ki Tree is an evergreen tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. It is a good choice for attracting birds and butterflies to your yard. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Tabu No Ki Tree is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade

Planting & Growing

Tabu No Ki Tree will grow to be about 80 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 60 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 4 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 80 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in rich soils, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.