Halleria lucida is a hardy, evergreen, small to medium sized tree with attractive foliage and a graceful drooping habit. It bears orange or pale yellow tubular flowers which are borne from April to August.
The flowers are borne along the woody stems (not on young branches) and are laden with nectar. When in flower the tree buzzes with life – both birds (especially Sunbirds) and insects are attracted to the copious amounts of nectar.
These are followed by quite large round juicy fruits which attract fruit eating birds and are said to be sweet and edible.
This is a widespread tree that grows in many different habitats from deep forests to rocky cold mountain slopes. Usually a small tree or large shrub in colder areas but can reach 12m in forest situations.
Generally speaking the smaller the leaves the hardier the plant. It makes an excellent garden subject and is an important element of a wildlife garden.
Plant in sun or semi-shade. It has many medicinal and magical uses.
Size 2 to 12 m