Escallonia × langleyensis 'Apple Blossom'
shrub

Apple Blossom Escallonia

Escallonia × langleyensis 'Apple Blossom'

The Story

Plant Bio

The genus Escallonia consists of evergreen shrubs native to the Andean regions of South America, valued for their glossy foliage and tolerance to coastal winds. These plants produce small, tubular flowers in terminal clusters, primarily during the warmer months of the year.

'Apple Blossom' is a compact, bushy hybrid cultivar distinguished by its arching branches and dual-toned floral display. The rosy-pink buds open to soft, pale pink and white flowers that contrast against the dark green, finely toothed leaves.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProduces a dense canopy of glossy evergreen leaves topped with soft pink and white flowers over a long season.
Practical UsesActs as an exceptionally wind- and salt-tolerant coastal hedge or screen, stabilizing soil in exposed locations.
Ecological BenefitsProvides nesting sites and shelter for small birds, while the tubular flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

98"

Width

98"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Low to Medium

Lifespan

10-20 years

Native To

South America (Andes)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late spring – Early fall

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
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In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a planting site in full sun with excellent drainage, avoiding low-lying areas where water collects.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and set the plant at the same depth as it was in the container.
  3. Water thoroughly at planting and maintain regular moisture during the first growing season to establish roots.
  4. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base, keeping it a few inches away from the stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in sharply drained soil, as stagnant moisture triggers root rot and dieback. Avoid shearing into completely bare, leafless interior wood, which lacks the active buds needed to regenerate foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain a dense, compact shape.
  • Ensure the soil drains rapidly to prevent root rot.
  • Provide full sun to maximize flower production and foliage density.

Don't

  • Do not plant in heavy, wet clay soils or poorly drained areas.
  • Do not shear deeply into old, completely leafless interior wood.
  • Do not plant in hot, highly humid subtropical or tropical climates.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

HedgeWindbreakCoastal GardenMixed BorderInformal Screen

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Apple Blossom Escallonia questions

What zones can Apple Blossom Escallonia grow in?

Apple Blossom Escallonia is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

When does Apple Blossom Escallonia bloom?

Apple Blossom Escallonia typically blooms in late spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Apple Blossom Escallonia need full sun?

Apple Blossom Escallonia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Apple Blossom Escallonia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Apple Blossom Escallonia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Apple Blossom Escallonia with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.