Drimys winteri aka Winter's Bark

Drimys winteri is known as winter's bark or canelo. This evergreen belongs to the Winteraceae family. Its native range runs from southern Chile to southwest Argentina. It grows in damp lowlands, reaching Tierra del Fuego. It also grows beside streams in rich, boggy ground. Gardeners grow it as a large shrub or tree.

It can form several stems and has a spreading crown. Garden accounts give a height near 25 feet [7.5 metres]. The RHS lists heights beyond 39 feet [12 metres]. It also lists spreads beyond 26 feet [8 metres]. Wild trees can reach about 49 feet [15 metres]. Its branches droop, and its red-brown bark has a strong scent. The leaves are simple, leathery, and arranged along alternate stem points. They vary from oval to long and narrow. Their edges are smooth, without teeth. Glossy green upper surfaces contrast with pale, waxy undersides. Crushed leaves give off a pepper-like scent.

Cream or white flowers grow in clusters at branch tips. Each flower has five to seven petals and red sepals. A cluster can hold as many as ten flowers. The flowers have a sweet scent. Sources differ on when they open. Oregon State gives winter or spring; the RHS gives early summer. The fruit starts blue, then turns shiny black.

Grow it in sun or light shade, with some shelter. It needs soil that drains well but retains moisture. Useful Tropical Plants says dry ground does not suit it. That source favours deep soil and a warm sandy loam. The RHS accepts clay, chalk, loam, and sand. It also lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Reports differ on wind tolerance, so a sheltered site makes sense. The RHS rates it H4 for UK gardens. Oregon State places it in USDA zone 8. PFAF gives the wider range of zones 7–10. Growth is moderate, and full size may take 20–50 years. It suits woodland edges and large borders. Growers can raise it from seed or semi-hardwood cuttings. The RHS reports few pest or disease problems.

The pungent bark serves as a ground spice or pepper substitute. It contains vitamin C and has a history of medicinal use. Reported uses include digestive complaints, dandruff, and scurvy. These traditional uses do not establish treatment safety or benefit. The bark also yields an aromatic oil. People use the heavy wood for boxes and indoor building work. The wood lacks durability and burns poorly. Sap can cause severe eye inflammation, so avoid eye contact.