Phillyrea Rosmarinifolia - Mock Privet

The Phillyrea angustifolia 'Rosmarinifolia' is a selection of the Narrow-leaved Phillyrea that is more compact than the typical variety, with a globose habit and narrower foliage. It is an evergreen shrub of Mediterranean origin, known for its robustness and drought resistance. Despite its unassuming appearance, this Phillyrea stands out in spring with the fragrance of its small, insignificant, honey-scented flowers, followed by bluish berries that resemble small olives but are not edible. Plant it in a hedge or use it as a substitute for boxwood in climates that are not too cold.

The Phillyrea is an evergreen shrub in the Oleaceae family, related to the olive tree and Osmanthus, native to the Mediterranean basin and the Middle East. In France, it is found in the undergrowth covering rocky hills, often associated with the holm oak, rooted in rocks but also tolerant of clayey and suffocating soils. Like the holm oak, it extends further north to the southwestern departments, for example in the Lot region. There are two species, Phyllirea angustifolia and P. latifolia. Their natural hybrid called P. (x) media can take on various forms. Rosmarinifolia is a form that has a small size, a distinctive spherical habit, and finer foliage compared to other Phillyreas.

The Phillyrea angustifolia 'Rosmarinifolia' naturally forms a rounded bush, branching from the base. Untouched, it does not exceed 1.75 m (6ft) in all directions. Its growth is quite slow in poor soil, slightly faster in deep and fertile soil. It produces bronze young shoots that become narrow and elongated, leathery leaves measuring 3 to 5 cm (1 to 2in) long and 0.5 cm (1in) wide. The upper surface is a fairly deep green, while the undersides are paler and velvety, they have a slight gloss. Flowering occurs from March to May depending on the region. The flowers are quite inconspicuous, not exceeding 1 cm (1in) and are cream-white with a greenish tinge. They are grouped in small clusters in the axils of the leaves, slightly fragrant and honey-scented. The flowering is followed by the formation of drupe fruits containing a non-edible stone, sought after by certain birds. They turn a blackish-blue color when ripe in autumn. This small tree can live for many years in poor and dry soil.

Very easy to cultivate, Phillyrea Rosmarinifolia only fears very cold winters when young. As it is not affected by sea spray, it can be adopted without reservation in coastal areas, especially in a small windbreak hedge. Like Pistacia lentiscus, laurel-tin, strawberry trees, myrtles, and Rhamnus alaternus, it is perfect for creating a free hedge or the persistent structure of a garden. These Mediterranean shrubs even tolerate shade and root competition. Also cultivate this Phillyrea in the undergrowth, alongside bear's breeches, Bupleurum fruticosum, or Choisya ternata. As it tolerates repeated pruning well, it can be used in topiary art to create original shapes.