Crinodendron hookerianum aka Lanterntree

Crinodendron hookerianum is an evergreen shrub or small tree from Chile. Its common names include lantern tree and Chilean lantern tree. It belongs to the Elaeocarpaceae family. Its native range includes La Araucanía and Los Lagos, including Chiloé Island. There it grows in temperate rainforests, near streams in damp shade. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

In gardens, it often forms a shrub with several stems. Straight branches grow upwards and make a dense crown. Oregon State gives a cultivated height near 13 feet [4 metres]. RHS lists a garden range of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Its listed spread is 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Wild trees can reach about 30 feet [9 metres]. Plants take 10–20 years to reach their full size.

The narrow leaves stay on the plant through winter. They have pointed tips and toothed edges, which often curl under. Their glossy, dark green upper sides have sunken veins. The lower sides are paler and bear fine hairs. Most leaves grow in opposite pairs, though other arrangements occur. The leaves have short stalks and feel stiff. Their dark colour forms a clear backdrop to the flowers.

Flowers hang beneath the branches from late spring through late summer. Their thick petals form small lanterns in crimson, scarlet or maroon. RHS gives a flower length near one inch [0.025 metres]. Oregon State describes larger blooms, reaching 2.4 inches [0.06 metres]. Each flower has five or six petals and joined green sepals. The fruit is a capsule that changes from green to tan. It has three to five sections that open.

Grow this plant in fertile, acidic soil with good drainage. Keep the soil moist and choose a site sheltered from wind. Partial shade suits it, as does bright shade. Sun also works where the roots stay cool and shaded. RHS accepts clay, loam and sandy soils. It gives the plant a UK hardiness rating of H4. Oregon State places it in USDA zone 9, with zone 8b noted. Its dense form suits courtyard gardens and borders beside walls. It can also serve as a plant with a strong outline. RHS reports few pest or disease problems. Limit pruning to dead wood, removing it in late spring. Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer to raise more plants.