How to grow sticky hop bush
Overview
Sticky hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa) is a versatile evergreen shrub valued for its dense foliage, colourful seed capsules, and tolerance of poor soils. It provides reliable texture and structure in the garden, making it an excellent filler plant that unifies bolder feature species. Growers should know it is drought-tolerant once established but requires well-drained soil and full sun for best results.
Varieties
- Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea' — Popular form with attractive bronze to purple foliage, especially in cool weather.
- Dodonaea viscosa 'Limelight' — Compact variety with bright lime-green leaves, ideal for contrasting dark foliage plants.
- Dodonaea viscosa 'Honeydew' — Smaller, dense shrub with yellow-green leaves and prolific seed capsules.
Soil Preparation
Prefers a free-draining sandy loam with a neutral to mildly acidic pH (6.0–7.0). Avoid heavy clay; if your soil is clay, raise the planting bed or add gypsum and organic matter to improve drainage. A light application of native slow-release fertiliser at planting time is beneficial.
Growing Guide
Plant sticky hop bush in full sun and well-drained soil, spacing specimens 1–2 metres apart for a dense screen. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, backfill with native soil, and water in well. Water deeply every 2–3 weeks during summer; avoid overwatering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. For hedges, tip-prune regularly from the first year.
Care
Feed in early spring with a slow-release native fertiliser low in phosphorus. Prune after the main flowering period (usually late spring) to remove dead wood and shape the plant. An annual light trim encourages denser growth. Remove any suckers or crossing branches to improve air circulation.
Companion Planting
Pair sticky hop bush with other hardy natives such as Callistemon ‘Kings Park Special’, Grevillea ‘Superb’, and Westringia fruticosa for a cohesive coastal or native garden. Avoid planting near heavy feeders like vegetables that require regular moisture, as the hop bush prefers drier conditions.
Common Pests & Risks
Scale insects and caterpillars are the most common pests. Scale appears as small brown or white bumps on stems and leaves, often followed by sooty mould. Treat with horticultural oil sprayed in late evening. Caterpillar damage shows as chewed leaves; handpick or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) as a biological control. Monitor regularly, especially in humid conditions.
Harvesting
Harvest not relevant.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: usually caused by overwatering or poor drainage; cut back watering and improve soil aeration. Leaf drop: may indicate cold stress in cool zones or severe drought; protect from frost or water deeply. Sticky leaves: a sign of scale or aphid infestation; treat with horticultural oil. Sooty mould: black coating on leaves from honeydew of scale; control the insect pest first. Lack of flowers and seeds: often due to too much shade; move plant to sunnier spot.