In 1995, when we named our Edgeworthia chrysantha ‘Snow Cream’, few people had even heard of the plant genus, Edgeworthia. Thirty one years later, people are actually visiting the garden and asking about it by name. It is always a favorite during our Winter Open Nursery & Garden weekends when it is in full flower and fragrance. It’s very rewarding when such a great garden plant finally gets its due. Hardiness Zone 7a-9b.
I have one I planted in my back yard a few years ago. Not sure if it is Snow Cream or just the straight species. It has already outgrown its spot, and partially covering up the walkway. I don’t want to cut it back, because it is quite lovely, very many well placed branches, apparently very happy. The alternative, moving it, will be a huge job, which I’m not sure I’m up to it. I may have to hire someone.
How large should I count on it getting? I need to know so I can figure out what to do. It gets morning sun, afternoon shade. Last 2 summers it got powdery mildew from perhaps too much shade and not enough air movement. It’s in good soil with good drainage.
Can you advise? I could send a photo later, just don’t have one to attach at the moment. Any help, advice is appreciated.
Mary Bean
You can expect Edgeworthia chrysantha to mature at 8-9′ tall x 12-15′ wide. Unfortunately, they don’t transplant particularly well, or tolerate severe cutbacks. We’ve never observed any powdery mildew, so I agree that perhaps too much shade and a lack of air movement are the issue. In this case, I’d probably start another in a better spot, and just keep the existing plants pruned out of the walk, realizing that it will shorten its life.
Tony, thank you! Just exactly what I needed to know.
Thanks as always for the great information. (I find the mature sizes publicized for Edgeworthia are all over the map.)
Thanks again.
Mary