Characteristics
The Serissa is an evergreen shrub. It is also known as the Tree of a Thousand Stars due to the number of tiny white flowers that blossom during the summer season.
Location
Ideally in a Mediterranean climate, outside in the sunshine.
In colder climates always protect from very low temperatures and avoid freezing.
Watering
Watering should be moderate. Excess watering can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves.
Fertilization
Spring and Autumn.
Re-potting
Every 2 years in spring.
Substrate
100% Akadama or mixed with 20% of volcanic clay.
Pruning and pinching
Pruning
This can be done throughout the year. The Serissa responds well to radical pruning and will bud back even in old wood. Eliminate unwanted suckers growing from the base of the trunk. Once the tree has grown four pairs of leaves remove two of the pairs using tweezers.
Pinching
When a shoot has grown more than 4 pairs of leaves, cut down to 2 pairs.
Wiring
Spring
Curiosities
When you prune the tree a nauseous smell is emitted, especially from the roots, giving the name of phoetida, fetid.