Family: Elaeocarpaceae
Common Name: Chilean Lantern Tree

From temperate parts of South America, this small genus of attractive, evergreen trees and shrubs need sheltered woodland conditions to thrive. They have glossy, dark green leaves and striking, urn-shaped, flowers which may be red or white.

Species

C. hookerianum, Chilean lantern tree, is a tall shrub or small tree growing to about 8 m (26 ft). It has narrow, shiny, dark green, lance-shaped leaves, toothed and veined, and small, pendulous bells of rich crimson flowers. In cool climates, these should be carried from late spring through summer.

C. patagua, to 14 m (46 ft), is easy to grow and can tolerate drier conditions. It has narrow, ovate leaves and white, cup-shaped flowers.

Cultivation

These trees do best in a cool climate in a slightly acid soil. They can be grown in sun or partial shade. Crinodendrons grow well in conditions that suit azaleas and rhododendrons. As they like cool roots, the roots should be shaded by other plants or heavily mulched. Propagate by cuttings taken in late summer or autumn, or from seed.

Climate

Zone 8.