Description
Lophomyrtus × ralphii ‘Kathryn’, commonly known as New Zealand Myrtle, is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its vibrant, multicolored foliage that ranges from deep burgundy to bright purple-red, often accented with hints of bronze and green. This hybrid, derived from crossing Lophomyrtus bullata and Lophomyrtus obcordata—both native to New Zealand—was developed to combine the best qualities of its parent species, such as dense, aromatic foliage and excellent tolerance to pruning. ‘Kathryn’ is valued for its compact, bushy growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hedges, borders, or specimen planting in temperate climates. Its leaves not only provide year-round color but also emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed. The plant thrives in well-drained soils with moderate moisture and performs well in full sun to partial shade, displaying good resistance to pests and diseases. Highly regarded among New Zealand natives, Lophomyrtus × ralphii cultivars like ‘Kathryn’ have gained attention in ornamental horticulture for their vibrant foliage and adaptability, contributing to their popularity in landscape design.