By Sheilabub
Hertfordshire,
United Kingdom 
Hoheria lyallii - is anyone growing it? In a mad moment I bought seed from the Ventnor Botanic Garden (to make up for not seeing the garden - it was lashing rain!). A white flowered tree from New Zealand sounds appealing, but the "instructions" are for ANY seed, and not specific. I'm guessing I should be patient and not sow the seed just yet?? Many thanks :)
28 Dec, 2019
Answers
I hadn't thought of that - thanks Shirley, good idea. With any luck the 'backroom boys' might be more helpful than the staff we did meet . . .
28 Dec, 2019
OK - done it. I will let you know if they respond :)
28 Dec, 2019
this is the RHS advice
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained preferably neutral or alkaline soil in full sun or part shade in a sheltered position
Propagation
Propagate by seed in a cold frame in autumn; root semi-ripe cuttings in late summer or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
Flower borders and beds Wall-side Borders City & Courtyard Gardens Coastal Cottage & Informal Garden
if you put the name in search bar and add rhs advice you will get a better set of info.
28 Dec, 2019
Many thanks Eileen. I’ve obviously missed the autumn sowing window, but someone at the botanic garden says I could soak the seeds and refrigerate them for 4 weeks. So I’ll try that with a few seeds and save a few more.
28 Dec, 2019
I am pleased they got back in touch with you. The fridge treatment will certainly mimic winter and it is a common treatment for many plants.
28 Dec, 2019
Yes, they were very prompt, so I’m grateful to Shirley and to you 🙂.
28 Dec, 2019
Previous question
Sheila, how about e-mailing the Botanical Garden for some information on the seed?
28 Dec, 2019