Contents
Description
Colliguaja Odorifera is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the family of Elaeocarpaceae. It is commonly known as the Canelo or Chilean Winter’s Bark tree and is native to central and southern Chile. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a narrow crown with a thick trunk. The bark of the Canelo tree is smooth and has a reddish-brown color, and the leaves are oblong-shaped and glossy with a leathery texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Genus | Colliguaja |
| Species | Odorifera |
Appearance
The Colliguaja Odorifera has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other plants. The leaves of the plant are leathery and glossy, and they are oblong-shaped, measuring about 3-8 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width. The tree blooms in late spring to early summer, producing small white or pink flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruits of the Canelo tree are also unique and are shaped like a green apple, measuring about 3-4 cm in diameter. The fruit turns yellow when it is ripe and has a sweet and sour taste.
Care Guide
The Colliguaja Odorifera is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some guidelines for taking care of this plant:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: The Canelo tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: The Colliguaja Odorifera is hardy in USDA zones 7 through 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Colliguaja Odorifera is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The tree may also attract scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The Colliguaja Odorifera is native to central and southern Chile, where it grows in the Andes Mountains and along the coast. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Colliguaja Odorifera be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Canelo tree can be grown in containers, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.
Q: Is the Colliguaja Odorifera a fast-growing tree?
A: No, the Canelo tree is a slow-growing tree that may take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Can the Colliguaja Odorifera be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the bark of the Canelo tree has been used for centuries by native Chileans for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Q: Is the Colliguaja Odorifera a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, the Canelo tree is a popular choice for landscaping in its native Chile and can be grown as an ornamental tree in other parts of the world.
Related Plants
- Colliguaja integerrima
- Elaeocarpus sylvestris
- Platanus acerifolia
- Prunus dulcis
References
- “Colliguaja odorifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286031.
- “Canelo.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/16941/colliguaja-odorifera/details.
- “Colliguaja odorifera.” PlantNet. https://tools.bgci.org/global_tree_search.php.
