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Description
Crinodendron Hookerianum, commonly known as the Chilean lantern tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Chile and Argentina. It belongs to the family Elaeocarpaceae and is prized for its stunning, bright red, lantern-shaped flowers. The flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by small, round, green fruits that turn red when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Elaeocarpaceae |
| Genus | Crinodendron |
Appearance
Crinodendron Hookerianum can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide, but it can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and elliptical in shape, measuring 3-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are the main attraction, and they grow in clusters of 3-12 at the ends of the branches. Each flower measures 1-2 inches long and has five petals that form a lantern shape, with a long stem that hangs downward. The fruit is a small, round, green berry that turns red when ripe.
Care Guide
Crinodendron Hookerianum requires moderate watering and can tolerate occasional dry spells once established. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil and should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and can be grown in hardiness zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crinodendron Hookerianum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also attract aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Crinodendron Hookerianum is native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and Argentina, where it grows in shady, moist areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crinodendron Hookerianum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted every few years as it grows.
Q: How often should Crinodendron Hookerianum be fertilized?
A: It should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does Crinodendron Hookerianum attract bees?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: Is Crinodendron Hookerianum deer-resistant?
A: No, it is not deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Crinodendron patagua
- Crinodendron tucumanum
- Crinodendron pyrifolium
References
- “Crinodendron hookerianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d447.
- “Crinodendron hookerianum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 5 May 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10978/crinodendron-hookerianum/details.
- “Crinodendron hookerianum.” The Spruce. Accessed 5 May 2021. www.thespruce.com/crinodendron-hookerianum-plant-profile-5078906.
