Shiny Xylosma

Plant Type: evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 8–10 feet (can be trained into a small tree)
Spread: 6–8 feet
Flower Color: insignificant; grown for foliage
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Shiny Xylosma (Xylosma congestum): Glossy Evergreen for Hedges and Screens

Shiny Xylosma is a versatile evergreen shrub valued for its dense, glossy green foliage and adaptability. Naturally rounded in habit, it can be shaped into a hedge, screen, or even trained into a small ornamental tree. With its durability and clean look, it’s a reliable choice for residential and commercial landscapes in Arizona.

Key Features of Shiny Xylosma

• Glossy Evergreen Leaves: Dense, bright green foliage provides year-round structure.
• Versatile Growth Habit: Works as a hedge, screen, or small specimen tree.
• Low Maintenance: Adapts well to pruning and shaping.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Once established, thrives in desert climates with moderate water.

Growing and Care Tips

Shiny Xylosma is tough and flexible, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of landscapes.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils; tolerates poor soils once established.
Water: Moderate during establishment; once mature, deep water every 2–3 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for strong growth.
Pruning: Can be lightly pruned throughout the year to maintain shape or sheared for a formal hedge.

Landscaping Uses

• Hedges & Screens: Dense foliage makes it perfect for privacy plantings.
• Accent Shrub or Tree: Can be trained into a small ornamental tree for courtyards or patios.
• Foundation Planting: Provides evergreen structure near buildings.
• Commercial Landscapes: Reliable, durable option for large-scale plantings.

Summary

Shiny Xylosma is a dependable evergreen shrub that combines glossy foliage, durability, and versatility. Whether used as a hedge, screen, or small tree, it thrives in Arizona landscapes with minimal care.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Shiny Xylosma

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for fastest growth; tolerates partial shade.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil preferred.
Spacing: Space 6–8 feet apart for hedging.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally upright and strong.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 3–4 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 2–3 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1–2 emitters 12–18 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: Two for young shrubs; three for mature plants.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly in extreme summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Shiny Xylosma:

• Soil Check: Allow the top 2–3 inches of soil to dry before rewatering.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water may reduce vigor and cause root issues.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or bark mulch to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature, keeping it away from the trunk base.