Luma apiculata aka Chilean Myrtle

Luma apiculata is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Its common names include Chilean myrtle, arrayán and palo colorado. It comes from south-central and southern Chile and southwestern Argentina. There, it grows in temperate forests. It keeps its leaves throughout the year and forms a bushy crown.

Size varies greatly between garden accounts. Oregon State gives a usual height of 6–8 feet [2–2.5 metres], with a similar spread. It also records plants reaching 20 feet [6 metres]. The RHS gives a much larger range of 26–39 feet [8–12 metres]. Its listed spread exceeds 26 feet [8 metres]. Plants may take 20–50 years to reach full size. Older branches develop smooth, cinnamon-coloured bark that peels to show cream beneath. This bark gives older plants interest beyond their flowers.

The small leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. They are oval to elliptic, with a short, sharp tip. Their upper sides are dull dark green; the undersides are paler. The leaves have a scent. Single white flowers open from midsummer to mid-autumn. Each flower spans about 0.07 feet [0.02 metres]. Four or five petals surround a showy ring of stamens. The anthers are pink. Purple to blue-black berries follow the flowers.

Grow this plant in sun or partial shade. Good drainage matters, and the RHS lists clay, chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral and alkaline conditions. Oregon State favours humus-rich soil with low fertility. The RHS records drought resistance and rates it H4 for UK hardiness. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. It suits courtyard gardens, wall borders and containers. It also makes a hedge in mild coastal areas. For hedging, avoid very exposed sites; the plant tolerates clipping well.

The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Its quality varies from plant to plant. Some berries are juicy, sweet and aromatic; others are dry and bland. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. That is not a specific assurance of safety for pets. The RHS reports few pest or disease problems. Honey fungus remains a concern where it already occurs. Seed and semi-hardwood cuttings provide ways to raise new plants.