Nothofagus pumilio aka Lenga

Nothofagus pumilio, known as lenga, is a deciduous tree. It belongs to the Nothofagaceae family. Its native range spans central and southern Chile into southern Argentina. It grows in temperate regions, including Tierra del Fuego. In native forests, it can form much of the canopy. It favours well-drained sites with well-developed soil. Its habitat extends from sea level to about 5,906 feet [1,800 metres].

This tree can reach 131 feet [40 metres] in height. The supplied sources give no separate garden height range. They also give no mature spread or detailed leaf description. Its deciduous habit means it sheds its leaves each year. Male and female flowers grow on the same tree. Each flower has only one sex. Wind carries pollen between the flowers. The evidence gives no flowering season or fruit details. PFAF lists it as a canopy tree for woodland gardens.

Grow lenga in sun, as it does not tolerate shade. It prefers moist soil that lets excess water drain away. An open loam suits it, though sand and clay also work. It favours mildly acid to neutral soil, around pH 5–7. Avoid lime-rich ground and acid peat. Cool, wet summers in a temperate maritime climate suit it. PFAF lists USDA hardiness zones 6–9. Its growth rate varies with the site. The source describes moderate growth overall, but slow growth in western Scotland. It also reports fast growth and poor wind resistance elsewhere in Britain.

Take care when moving young trees, as their roots dry out easily. Plants around 1–2.6 feet [0.3–0.8 metres] tall are best for transplanting. Larger trees can establish, but need careful handling. Sow ripe seed in a cold frame or cool greenhouse. Spring sowing needs two to three months of cold treatment. Keep young seedlings in a cold frame through their first winter. Half-ripe cuttings and layering offer other ways to raise plants.

PFAF records spring use of the sap and inner bark as food. It gives the tree a low food-use rating. It reports no known hazards, but this does not prove safety. No medicinal uses are known. The wood has practical uses, though the source gives few details. It also records use for torches. PFAF does not flag the species as weedy.