INTRODUCTION

Drimys winteri is an extremely important plant for the local Indians, the Mapuche. It was considered to be a symbol of peace, and it was almost obligatory to have on planted near one's house for good luck and protection. Most peace treaties among the Indians were signed under the shade of this magic tree. On a more practical level, it is also a medicinal planty, a good source of vitamin C. It is also a tonic. It is relatively easy to grow, but the germination is rather lengthy, and may take several month. The seeds may not be dried out and must be planted fresh.

Image of Drimys winteri

VII Region, Reserva Nacional Altos del Lircay, Chile
Altitude: 400-1550 m. 01 07, 2006

DESCRIPTION

Plant type: Tree

Flower: White, 7 - 14 petals

Height: 25 m.

Image of Drimys winteri

VII Region, Reserva Nacional Altos del Lircay, Chile
Altitude: 400-1550 m. 01 07, 2006

HABITAT

In Chile this species grows in the following environmental conditions:

Habitat according to altitude:

Medium altitude up to the timber line
Low altitude, interior valleys
Coastal mountains, 500 - 2000 m.
Coastal areas, 0 - 500 m

Watering conditions:

The plant grows in water or it has its roots within a permanent water course. This corresponds to marshes, bogs, water courses, lake and river shores.
Humid areas, with almost constant rainfall. Short dry periods are possible (generally not longer than 1 month).
Somewhat dry areas where the drought may last 3 - 5 months. Precipitations of 400 - 800 mm. are concentrated in winter.

Light conditions:

Some shadow. Some protection against direct sunlight, some shadow from vegetation, filtering about 20 - 40 % of light.
In shadow. Steep slopes facing south or a vegetation cover which filters 40 - 80 % of light.

Image of Drimys winteri

VII Region, Vilches Alto, El Morillo, Chile
Altitude: 1500 m. 02 10, 2006

USES

Good ornamental value (A)

Useful properties:

Medicinal
Timber

Image of Drimys winteri

VII Region, Las Lomas, Chile
Altitude: 400-600 m. 12 28, 2005

GROWING TIPS

This species has the following hardiness:

USDA Hardiness Zone 8. The plant tolerates low temperatures (-8° C), can tolerate occasional snow cover for up to a couple of weeks per year.

Relatively easy to cultivate

Low germination, less than 30 %

If you are interested in purchasing seeds of this or similar species, please go to our On-line Seeds Shop.

More photos (6) of Drimys winteri J.R. & G. Forster available here

More species from the same Winteraceae family in our data base:

Drimys andina (Canelo enano / Canelo andino)

Drimys winteri (Canelo / Fuñe / Boighe / Boique)