Bluewood, Brazilian bluewood, Edwards' bluewood
Condalia hookeri

Family: Rhamnaceae

What it is like

Condalia hookeri is a SHRUB growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 2

Where it is found

High sandy banks, often covering large areas with dense, impenetrable chaparral. Dry soils, especially on limestone.

South-western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Fruit - raw or cooked. Sweet and fleshy with a pleasant sweet flavour, it is mainly used for making jellies. The fruit has been boiled, then strained and the juice boiled again to make a syrup.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 3

A blue dye is obtained from the wood. Wood - very heavy, hard, dense, close-grained. The dense heartwood is a brilliant red colour and has been used to make ornamental objects. It burns with an intense heat and is valued as a fuel.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. However, judging by its native range, it could succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. A good bee plant. 149

Propagating it:

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 0-0

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. obovata. Hook.