Description
Lophomyrtus × ralphii ‘Little Star’, commonly known as New Zealand Myrtle, is a compact evergreen shrub prized for its dense, vibrant foliage that offers year-round interest. This hybrid, developed in New Zealand, results from a cross between Lophomyrtus bullata and Lophomyrtus obcordata, combining the best traits of both parent species. ‘Little Star’ stands out for its small, glossy leaves that emerge with striking bronze and red hues before maturing to deep green, providing a dynamic color display across seasons. This cultivar is especially valued for its use as a low hedge or groundcover in temperate gardens, thriving in well-drained soils with moderate moisture and offering good tolerance to pruning. Lophomyrtus × ralphii ‘Little Star’ also exhibits resilience against common pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for sustainable landscaping. Its unique blend of colorful foliage and manageable growth habit reflects the horticultural innovation characteristic of New Zealand native plant breeding programs.