Eucryphia cordifolia aka Ulmo

Eucryphia cordifolia, known as ulmo or roble de Chile, is an evergreen tree. It belongs to the Cunoniaceae family. Its native range spans south-central and southern Chile into southwestern Argentina. It grows in cool rainforests at low elevations. Recorded sites include Arauco and Chiloé, and the La Costa hills. This is a tree of temperate regions, with year-round foliage.

In gardens, it forms a tree or a large shrub. Its crown is broad but upright, with a columnar outline. The RHS gives an eventual height of 49–66 feet [15–20 metres]. Its size table lists heights above 39 feet [12 metres]. Spread reaches about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Allow space for this long-term growth when choosing a site. The RHS gives a maturity range of 20–50 years. The oblong leaves feel leathery and have a dull green surface. Soft grey hairs cover their undersides. Small, shallow teeth line the leaf edges. Fragrant white flowers appear from late summer into autumn. Each bloom measures about 1.6–2 inches across.

Choose full sun or partial shade, away from cold, drying winds. Keep the root area shaded from hot sun. The soil should be fertile, rich in humus, and moist. Good drainage matters too; moisture should not mean waterlogged ground. Loam, sand, and clay can all suit this tree. Use acidic or neutral soil. The RHS rates it H4 under UK growing conditions. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. Take semi-ripe cuttings in summer to raise new plants. Keep young plants in a cool greenhouse through winter.

Its evergreen crown can serve as a screen or hedge. The RHS also lists coastal gardens among its uses. Plants For A Future places it in woodland canopy plantings. It also records value for wildlife, without naming particular visitors. The wood is hard, strong, and close-grained. Uses include furniture, floors, and oars. It also provides fuel and charcoal. The bark supplies tannin.

The RHS reports few pest problems, though honey fungus may attack. Plants For A Future records no known edible or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards. That is not proof that every plant part is safe to eat. The same source does not flag this tree as weedy.