Nothofagus obliqua aka Patagonian Oak

Nothofagus obliqua is a deciduous tree called roble or roble beech. It belongs to the Nothofagaceae family. Its native range covers central and south-central Chile and western Neuquén, Argentina. It grows in forests within this temperate part of South America. The name obliqua refers to its uneven leaf base. This is a large tree, not a small garden beech.

It grows fast and forms an upright crown. Garden trees can reach 66 feet [20 metres] or more. Wild trees may reach 130 feet [40 metres]. The RHS lists a spread beyond 26 feet [8 metres]. It gives a maturity period of 20–50 years. The trunk often forks, with grey-brown or dark brown bark. Young shoots are long and lack hairs. These traits give the tree a strong outline in larger landscapes.

The simple leaves grow alternately in two rows along the shoots. They are oval to oblong, with pointed tips and toothed edges. Each leaf has a slightly uneven base and a short stalk. The upper face is green; the underside is paler. Leaves turn yellow or red before falling in autumn. Small male and female flowers have green bracts around them. They are not showy. The buff fruit has four valves and holds three nuts. Once released, the nuts resemble those of northern beeches.

Grow this tree in full sun and fertile, acid soil. It needs moist soil that drains well and contains no lime. Clay, loam and sand are all listed as suitable. Oregon State gives it average water needs. The RHS rates it H5 for UK gardens. Published US ratings differ: PFAF gives zones 6–9, while Oregon State lists zone 8. Its size suits a woodland canopy or a large landscape specimen. PFAF also lists hedge and windbreak use. Yet another report questions how well it withstands wind. Growers can raise new trees from seed.

Aphids and beech bark scale may attack this tree. Root rot may also occur. Honey fungus is a possible risk where it already grows. The RHS says the degree of susceptibility remains unclear. The hard, heavy wood is durable and has several uses. These include furniture, shipbuilding and indoor joinery, as well as fuel. PFAF reports no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards, though this does not prove safety. The same source does not flag the tree as weedy.