Satinleaf
Green on top, copper shimmer underneath, so every breeze puts on a show. A hammock tree that looks designed on purpose.
Chrysophyllum oliviforme
Glossy green on top, coppery velvet underneath, and it shimmers in the breeze.
Why it works here
Satinleaf is pure elegance. The leaves are dark glossy green on top and a rich coppery bronze underneath, so every breeze sets the whole tree shimmering two toned. It stays a manageable, upright size that fits real yards, and it carries small sweet purple fruit that is edible and loved by wildlife. For a specimen tree near a patio or entry where people will notice it, this is one of my favorites.
Care
Water it through the first year or two, then it is quite drought tough in well drained soil. It is a slow grower, so buy the size you want to start closer to, and enjoy that it never gets away from you. Protect it in a warm spot, since it can be damaged around freezing, and our coldest inland nights are its main risk here. Prune lightly for shape only. Mulch and compost are all it needs.
Common problems
Cold damage in a hard freeze. The fix is siting: give it a warm, protected spot away from open frost pockets, and a young tree can be covered on the rare cold night.
Slow growth. No cure but patience and a bigger starting plant, it is worth it for the foliage.
Minor leaf chewing caterpillars or gall mites that deform a few leaves. Cosmetic, hand pick if you like, otherwise ignore, the tree stays healthy.
Common questions
What makes the leaves look like that?
The undersides are covered in fine coppery hairs, so as leaves flip in the wind you see green then bronze then green, a shimmering effect that is the whole reason to plant it.
Is the fruit any good?
It is small and sweet and edible, related to the tropical star apple, though the star apple has the bigger, better fruit. Here the satinleaf earns its keep on looks and wildlife value.
Will it survive our cold snaps?
Usually, in a protected spot. It can get nipped around freezing, so plant it warm, and it sails through most winters here on the Treasure Coast.
Interested in a satinleaf in your landscape?
We plan, install, and care for it. Start with a paid consultation.