Information about plants & gardens for Brisbane & Qld

Radermachera

species, hybrids and cultivars

Family: Bignoniaceae

Until fairly recently, the best known plant in this genus was Radermachera sinica, sold as "China doll" in Australia. It's marketed as a potted foliage plant but has the potential to grow into a huge tree if planted in the ground.

A more recent introduction is Radermachera 'Kunming'. The correct species designation is still uncertain). This shrub/tree is being marketed by one wholesale nursery in Australia as Summerscent®.

It has bushy green foliage and scented pale pink flowers with yellow throats. Should be suitable for a large hedge or as a specimen plant. Marketed as growing to about 3m, it wouldn't be surprising if it could get larger and be trainable as a small tree. Because it's relatively new on the market, performance in Queensland over the long term is yet to be evaluated.

The pros and cons of Radermachera 'Kunming' was discussed in detail in the 27-10-2023 edition of Get Results Gardening, a weekly email publication for Australian gardeners, especially those in the tropical, subtropical and warm temperate parts of the country. Find out how to get a free trial at calyx.com.au/getresultsgardening.html. If you want to see the 'Kunming' article, ask for a copy of that edition in your trial request email. (Australian residents only, please)