The Clusia Guttifera, also known as Small-Leaf Clusia or Pitch Apple, is a tropical evergreen shrub native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America that has glossy, dark green leaves. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and has a moderate growth rate. The Clusia is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering. It is perfect for making hedges. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and is a great choice for adding lush dark greens to your garden.
| Size | Typical height | Spacing | Typical price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Gallon | 8–16" | 1.5 ft apart | $7.99 | Center-to-center |
| 7-Gallon | 24–36" | 2 ft apart | $29.99 | Center-to-center |
| 15-Gallon | 4–5ft | 3 ft apart | $59.99 | Center-to-center |
| 25-Gallon | 5–6ft | 4 ft apart | $119.99 | Center-to-center |
Clusia Breakdown
Appearance:
Dense, evergreen shrub with thick, paddle-shaped, leathery leaves that are glossy green on top and lighter underneath.
The foliage grows in an upright, symmetrical habit and creates a clean, modern aesthetic. Flowers are rare in hedge form but may appear as small pink or white star-shaped blooms.
Growth Rate:
Fast.
This species is known for rapid establishment and fill-in, especially when regularly watered during the first year.
Size:
Typically maintained between 4–8 feet for hedge use.
Left untrimmed, it can grow into a small tree reaching 20 feet or more.
Sunlight Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade.
Performs best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but can tolerate filtered light.
Water Needs:
Low to moderate.
Requires regular watering when newly planted but becomes quite drought-tolerant once established. Avoid consistently soggy soil.
Soil Preferences:
Well-draining soil is essential.
Tolerates sandy or rocky soils and is salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal areas. Neutral to slightly acidic pH is ideal.
Maintenance:
Low.
Regular trimming promotes density and shape. Responds well to heavy pruning. Minimal pest or disease concerns.
Landscape Use:
Frequently used for privacy hedges, windbreaks, sound barriers, and property lines.
Can also be used as a specimen shrub or pruned into a small ornamental tree in modern tropical landscapes.
Climate Tolerance:
Hardy in USDA zones 10–11.
Thrives in hot, humid environments and is both salt- and heat-tolerant. Not frost-hardy.
Clusia Guttifera is a dependable, low-maintenance plant ideal for fast-growing privacy hedges and clean, structured landscapes. Its durability and adaptability make it one of South Florida’s most popular hedge choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Plant & Care for Clusia in Florida
Layout Spacing (by Pot Size)
Palm Beach County guideline: 3 gal ≈ 1.5 ft apart, 7 gal ≈ 2 ft, 15 gal ≈ 3 ft, 25 gal ≈ 4 ft (center-to-center). Use a string line for a perfectly straight hedge.
Prep the Trench / Holes
For hedges, a continuous trench (or evenly sized holes) helps keep the line straight. Dig 2–3x wider than the root ball and slightly shallow so the root ball sits a touch high.
Plant for Fast Rooting
Slide out of the pot, loosen circling roots, and plant with the top of the root ball level to slightly above grade. Backfill with native soil and firm gently.
Water Schedule (Most Important)
Days 1–14: deep soak daily. Weeks 3–4: taper to ~3–4x/week depending on rain/soil. Goal: keep the root ball consistently moist (not soggy).
Trim for Density
After a few weeks, lightly tip-prune to push branching. Regular light trims create the thick “wall” look without stressing the plant.
Professional Installation Available: Not comfortable planting yourself? We offer expert installation services throughout Florida. Our team has 15+ years of experience ensuring your plants thrive. Call 561-898-2028 to add installation to your order.
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