About

Beilschmiedia miersii is a perennial tree that can grow taller than 25 meters in its native tropical environment, though it typically does not attain such heights when cultivated in the U.K. Its leaves measure between 5 and 12 centimeters in length, characterized by an ovate shape, a leathery texture, and a glossy green surface, with a pale, glaucous underside. When crushed, the leaves emit a camphor fragrance. The small yellowish flowers, which are covered in fine hairs, are arranged in panicles that can reach up to 6 centimeters long. These flowers may develop into ellipsoid fruits, measuring up to 4 centimeters, that start off mottled yellow and eventually turn brown.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Loam, Sand, Clay, Chalk
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
Higher than 12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Native to
Chile
Fragrance
Foliage

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered position; water in prolonged dry periods as this tree does not cope with drought
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free