Dodonaea viscosa - Green Ake Ake
Dodonaea viscosa, commonly known as Ake Ake or Hopbush, is a hardy, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree that typically reaches 2 to 5 meters in height and 1.5 to 3 meters in width, though it can grow taller in ideal conditions. Native to New Zealand and widely found across tropical and subtropical regions, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and is highly tolerant of dry, windy, and coastal conditions. It prefers well-drained soils and is often used in revegetation projects, shelterbelts, or hedging due to its resilience and adaptability. The foliage varies from green to bronze or purplish, especially in cooler weather, and produces small, inconspicuous flowers followed by attractive papery, winged seed capsules that range in color from pink to reddish-brown. Dodonaea viscosa is also a great choice for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscaping.