Hopbush

Hopbush (Dodonaea viscosa) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and showy papery seed capsules. Its ultimate size varies with climate, water, and pruning, so place it where a large screen or informal hedge can develop. ## Landscape use UF/IFAS describes plants that can reach 10–15 feet tall, are commonly 6–10 feet tall, and spread 6–15 feet wide. The [USDA NRCS fact sheet](https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_dovi.pdf) gives a broader species height range of 6–25 feet. Hopbush can serve as a hedge, screen, windbreak, or erosion-control shrub. The [National Tropical Botanical Garden profile](https://ntbg.org/database/plants/detail/dodonaea-viscosa) describes a dense shrub that can be pruned into a small tree or hedge. ## Growing conditions Plant in full sun or light shade. UF/IFAS lists USDA zones 9–11 and describes greenish-yellow flowers in spring and fall; female plants can develop colorful capsules in red, pink, green, yellow, or tan. The species tolerates wind, salt spray, and dry heat. USDA NRCS recommends regular water during establishment and little water once established. See the [UF/IFAS profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP181) and [UC IPM overview](https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/dodonaea/) for growing details. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and extended drought, then reduce irrigation when growth is healthy. The National Tropical Botanical Garden notes that it can be pruned into a small tree or hedge, allowing its size and form to suit a screen or informal boundary.