Myoporum laetum   Ngaio

Myoporaceae

20-30' high evergreen shrub or small tree. "myoporum" = "closed pore". Can grow in sandy soil, can be grown as single-trunked tree. As long as drainage is good, you can do anything you want to it in terms of watering. Slightly frost sensitive, burns a bit on top. Can be slightly invasive. Fast growth. Leaves are simple, alternate, fleshy and bright. Dark green, 3 to 4" long, 1 to 1 1/2" wide, elliptical. Great as shrub border and as a windbreak. White to violet flowers, 1/2" wide, blooms June through August and intermittently September through November. Prefers full to part sun, high to moderate water; likes loam, clay and sand. Tolerates heat, poor soil and salt air. Photos above taken near Rodeo Beach in the Marin Headlands; photos below taken near the Beach Chalet in Golden Gate Park.