Small Leaf Clusia
Clusia guttifera
Also known as: Clusia · Autograph Tree · Small-Leaf Clusia
The coastal hedge of Southwest Florida — dense, salt-tolerant, low maintenance.
Southwest Florida
Growing Small Leaf Clusia in SWFL
Clusia is the premier privacy hedge for coastal SWFL. Its thick, waxy leaves shrug off salt air that destroys podocarpus within one season. Maintains dense privacy at 6–10 feet with 2–3 trims per year. Available in 3G, 7G, and 15G. Responds well to shaping into formal hedges.
Plant Specifications
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to part shade |
|---|---|
| Water Needs | Low — very drought tolerant once established |
| Salt Tolerance | High — excellent within 0.5 miles of Gulf |
| Cold Hardiness | Zone 10a — frost sensitive |
| Mature Height | 8–12ft maintained / 20ft+ unpruned |
| Mature Spread | 6–10ft maintained |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
Nursery stock photo
Live Inventory
Available Sizes
Frequently Asked Questions
Clusia is the coastal choice — its high salt tolerance outperforms Podocarpus within a mile of the Gulf. Podocarpus has a finer texture and slower growth, making it easier to maintain at precise heights. For inland estates, either works. For coastal properties, Clusia is the clear winner.
2–3 times per year to maintain a clean hedge form. Clusia responds well to hard pruning and rebounds quickly. It will not become invasive if left untrimmed — it just grows taller.
For immediate privacy at 4–5 feet, start with 7G (14" containers) planted 3 feet on center. For faster coverage, use 15G. The 3G size is economical for long hedge runs where you can wait 12–18 months for fill-in.
Clusia guttifera (Small Leaf Clusia) is not on the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) invasive list as of our last review. Clusia rosea (Large Leaf Clusia) has more invasive potential — confirm species before planting near natural areas.
From our growing guides
Clusia Hedge Plants in SW Florida — Sizes, Spacing & Source GuideSmall Leaf Clusia is in stock.
Call to confirm sizing and current availability.