SJB Ugni Molinae 'Butterball'

All the more reason, then, to give 'Butterball' Ugni molinae a place in your garden since it really is a charming shrub and still too little known. Dense, glossy green foliage is the feature of the 'Butterball', but it is cultivated mainly for its abundance of small, bell-shaped white flowers in spring, which give off a delicate, sweet fragrance. These are succeeded by larger-than-average golden-yellow fruits, providing a striking contrast against the dark foliage and rounding out the burst of colour in the garden through late summer into autumn.

Ideal as a specimen for the border or as an added interest plant in an edible garden, 'Butterball' thrives in a sunny to half-sun position, in well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to care for, requiring only minimal pruning to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. The fruits are even showier than the flowers and last very long. They are also sweet with a slight tartness and are used for making good jams and jellies or for eating fresh.