Nothofagus dombeyi aka Coigue

Taxonomy

Nothofagus dombeyi, also known as Dombey's beech, coigue, coihue, or coigüe, is a fast-growing tree species native to southern Chile and the Andean parts of Argentine Patagonia. It can thrive in a wide range of climatic conditions and forms dense forests. This evergreen tree can reach impressive heights of up to 45 m (148 ft) and have a diameter of 1.9 m (6.2 ft). One notable specimen had a diameter of 2.55 m (8.4 ft) at chest height and a total volume of 87 m³. The coihue has elegant branches that spread horizontally and is cultivated for its timber and ornamental value. The leaves of Nothofagus dombeyi are small, oval-shaped, and dark green, with toothed borders and a pointed tip. They are evergreen, thick, and shiny, measuring 25–40 mm in length and 10–16 mm in width. The tree is hermaphroditic, with both male and female flowers present on the same tree. The flowers, less than 5 mm in size, are not particularly noticeable. The fruit of the tree is a triangular nut, approximately 4–7 mm in size. Stands of Nothofagus dombeyi play an important role in maintaining cool temperatures and stable daily temperature variations around streams due to the shade they provide. Overall, this versatile tree species is highly valued for its timber, attractive appearance, and ability to thrive in various environments.

Common names

Coigue, Coihue, Koywe

How to care for Coigue

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Coigue is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Coigue should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Coigue requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Coihue is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.


More info:
Wikipedia