This shrub has open stiff upright branching that forms a bushy habit. It has mid to dark green narrow oblong leaves with toothed margins and the yellow saucer-shaped flowers appear during spring with persistent red calyx and followed by black fruit.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Ochna serrulata is naturally found in southern Africa growing in well drained, fertile moist sandy to clay soils in an open sunny position and is drought tolerant but frost tender.

Ochna is grown for its bushy habit and colourful fruit. It is planted along borders in gardens or trimmed to form a hedge. It is also used as a low screen or planted in tubs and planter boxes. It is suitable for coastal regions and establishes in 1-2 years. ID 869

Note:
It is a common garden escape plant that is controlled by physical removal including the taproot at seedling stage or by cutting the stump then painting on undiluted glyphosate. Take care as the taproot snaps off easily and then will re-sprout.

Ochna(OK-na) serrulata(ser-roo-LAIT-a)

Ochnaceae (OK-nah-AY-see-ee)