Chilean Myrtle

Luma apiculata

Digital photograph of a Chilean Myrtle taken at Woodstock Estate, Inistioge, County Kilkenny

Luma apiculata

Digital photograph of a Chilean Myrtle taken at Woodstock Estate, Inistioge, County Kilkenny

Common Name: Chilean Myrtle.

Description: The Chilean Myrtle makes a small evergreen tree in mild locations. The cinnamon-coloured bak peals away on mature trees revealing a cream-coloured inner bark. The leaves are dark and end in a sharp point. White flowers occur in late summer followed by red and black fruits. Self-seeding is common in Ireland.

Origin: The Chilean Myrtle occurs naturally in Southern Chile, it likes a mild moist climate so thus well in Ireland especially in milder areas. It was introduced in 1843.

The specimen in Woodstock is 15m in height and is multi-stemmed.