Luma apiculata

Common Name:
Chilean Myrtle

Description:
Luma apiculata, commonly known as the Chilean Myrtle, is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree native to the temperate rainforests of Chile and Argentina. Renowned for its smooth, cinnamon-coloured bark that peels to reveal creamy-white patches, it offers year-round visual interest. The plant features small, glossy, dark green leaves that emit a sweet, spicy aroma when crushed. In summer, it produces clusters of fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers, which are followed by small, edible, purple-black berries in autumn. These berries are not only a treat for local wildlife but can also be used in jams and jellies. The Chilean Myrtle thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it well-suited to Melbourne's climate. Its moderate growth rate and ornamental features make it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes.

Form:

• Shrub - Large

• Tree - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 5–10 metres

• Width: 3–6 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun

• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Summer

• Flowers in Autumn

Flower Colour:

• White

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots

• Scented flowers

• Edible Fruit

• Bird Attracting

• Bee Attracting

• Perennial

• Suitable for Hedging

• Suitable for Topiary

• Ornamental bark

Toxicity:

• Not considered toxic to humans or pets; however, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals.

Companion Plants:

• Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka)

• Correa alba (White Correa)

• Grevillea rosmarinifolia (Rosemary Grevillea)

• Westringia fruticosa (Coastal Rosemary)

• Callistemon citrinus (Crimson Bottlebrush)