LOPHOMYRTUS R. GOLDEN DRAGON

Planting Lophomyrtus ralphii ‘Golden Dragon’

Lophomyrtus ralphii ‘Golden Dragon’ is a striking evergreen shrub known for its small, glossy leaves splashed with green, yellow, and bronze tones. Its vibrant foliage provides year-round interest, making it ideal for borders, containers, and sheltered garden spaces.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Best foliage colour develops in a bright, sunny position
• Requires a sheltered spot, protected from cold winds
• Ideal for borders, patios, and container planting
• Suitable for coastal gardens in mild climates

Soil requirements

• Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil
• Prefers neutral to slightly acidic conditions
• Does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soils
• Improve soil with compost or well-rotted organic matter before planting
• Add grit if drainage is poor

How to plant in the ground

• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and similar depth
• Loosen the soil at the base to aid root development
• Position the plant so the root ball is level with the soil surface
• Backfill with enriched soil and firm gently
• Water thoroughly after planting
• Apply a light mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Planting in containers

• Use a pot with good drainage holes
• Fill with a free-draining compost such as multi-purpose with added grit
• Choose a container slightly larger than the root ball
• Water well after planting and allow excess water to drain
• Place in a sheltered, sunny position

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Lophomyrtus ‘Golden Dragon’ is relatively low maintenance but benefits from consistent care to keep its foliage vibrant and healthy.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged
• Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance
• Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in summer
• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering

Feeding

• Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth
• Container plants benefit from occasional liquid feeding during the growing season
• Annual mulching with compost helps maintain soil fertility
• Avoid excessive feeding, which can lead to overly soft growth

Pruning

• Lightly trim to maintain a compact, bushy shape
• Prune in late spring or early summer after new growth begins
• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Avoid heavy pruning into old wood
• Regular light trimming enhances foliage density

Mulching

• Apply a mulch of compost or bark in spring
• Helps retain moisture and improve soil structure
• Suppresses weeds and regulates soil temperature
• Keep mulch clear of the base of the stems

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

With the right conditions, Lophomyrtus ‘Golden Dragon’ will provide vibrant foliage and year-round interest in the garden.

Winter care

• Not fully hardy in colder climates and may need protection
• Protect from frost and cold, drying winds
• In colder areas, grow in containers that can be moved to shelter
• Use horticultural fleece during severe cold spells
• Ensure soil is well-drained to prevent winter root damage

Maintaining colour and growth

• Best foliage colour develops in good light conditions
• Too much shade may result in duller leaf colour
• Avoid exposed positions that can damage foliage
• Regular care helps maintain a dense, healthy habit

Common problems

• Leaf drop may occur due to cold stress or sudden temperature changes
• Root rot can develop in poorly drained or waterlogged soil
• Browning leaves may be caused by wind exposure or frost damage
• Generally pest-free, though occasional aphids may appear
• Poor growth is often linked to unsuitable soil or lack of shelter

Lophomyrtus ralphii ‘Golden Dragon’ is a colourful and eye-catching shrub that adds brightness and texture to the garden throughout the year. Its compact habit makes it ideal for borders and containers, while its vibrant foliage provides constant visual interest. With a sheltered position, well-drained soil, and minimal maintenance, it will thrive and enhance a wide range of garden styles.

• Size
  2 lt

Kindly be aware when mix/ mixed/ assorted/ varieties is mention you will receive ONLY ONE plant/ item, which will be selected for delivery, photos may show different varieties available - which may also vary 

 
We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via DPD Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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