Sapindaceae
Hop bush: Full Sun Plant
Dodonaea viscosa
A low-maintenance, drought-tolerant shrub that requires minimal care once established. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil; it is prone to root and crown rot if overwatered. It is frost-sensitive, so in colder climates, it should be planted in a frost-free location or on a covered patio.
Every 14 days
Direct sun
-4° - 40°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Hop bush?
Hop bush (Dodonaea viscosa) is a easy-care plant from the Sapindaceae family. Dodonaea viscosa (hop bush) is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), native to dry, sunny habitats in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide—such as sandy coastal dunes and rocky slopes. Its narrow, glossy, resin-coated leaves have a characteristic 'varnished' s...
Hop bush grows up to 4.5m, spread of 450cm, watering every 14 days, -4°C – 40°C, 30–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Hop bush tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Hop bush is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Hop bush?
TLDR: Hop bush needs Direct sun, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between -4-40°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Hop bush?
Water regularly only during the first few months of establishment; afterwards, allow the top layer of soil to dry out completely between waterings—overwatering can cause yellowing and root rot.
How Much Light Does Hop bush Need?
Choose a full sun location—the plant becomes sparse and produces fewer flowers in the shade. For potted specimens, choose the sunniest balcony or windowsill.
What Is the Best Soil for Hop bush?
Requires well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil; stagnant moisture leads to root rot. It tolerates slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH (6-7.5) best; avoid poorly drained clay soils.
What Pot Should You Use for Hop bush?
For container growth, choose a large terracotta pot with ample drainage holes and a gravel-sand drainage layer at the bottom to prevent waterlogged roots.
What Is Hop bush and Where Does It Come From?
Dodonaea viscosa (hop bush) is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), native to dry, sunny habitats in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide—such as sandy coastal dunes and rocky slopes. Its narrow, glossy, resin-coated leaves have a characteristic 'varnished' sheen that protects the plant from dehydration. Small, yellowish-green flowers bloom in spring and fall, followed by distinctive, papery, rosy-red, winged fruits that gave the species the name 'hop bush,' as they were once used as a substitute for hops in beer brewing. It is extremely drought- and salt-tolerant, making it a popular choice for windbreak hedges or coastal protection.
How Big Does Hop bush Grow?
TLDR: Hop bush can reach up to 4.5m tall with Medium growth rate.
Max height
4.5m
Spread
4.5m
Growth rate
Medium
Foliage
Evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Medicinal Uses
- Leaves were traditionally used to reduce fever and relieve pain
- Chewed leaves or poultices were used for wounds, sore throats, and toothaches
Culinary Uses
- Its bitter, hop-like fruits were traditionally used as a substitute for hops in beer brewing
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Hop bush?
TLDR: Hop bush is susceptible to 4 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Crown Rot
Crown rot is a serious fungal disease that attacks the crown (base) of the plant where the stem meets the soil. It is caused by various fungal pathogens including Phytophthora, Fusarium, and Rhizoctonia. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions and can quickly spread to kill the entire plant if not addressed promptly.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small sap-sucking pests that appear as brown, shell-like bumps on plant stems and leaves. There are over 25 species, divided into armored (hard) and unarmored (soft) scales. They feed by piercing plant tissue and extracting sap, which weakens the plant and can lead to yellowing, stunted growth, and even death if left untreated. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Meaning & Symbolism
A symbol of endurance and adaptability: it thrives in dry, windy coastal areas and desert landscapes, with its resinous leaves symbolizing preparedness for survival.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
