Maytenus magellanica
Care, watering, light and tips for Maytenus magellanica on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Celastraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Maytenus magellanica
Maytenus magellanica, known as Magellan's Mayten or Leña Dura, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Patagonia. It is characterized by its glossy dark green leaves, which can turn reddish in autumn, and its small reddish fruits. It is ideal for hedges, as a specimen plant in gardens, or for restoring forested areas due to its resistance to wind and cold.
Native range
South America: Chile and Argentina, from the Biobío Region to Tierra del Fuego.
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade and tolerates a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings; it is quite drought-tolerant once established. It adapts to poor soils but appreciates slightly acidic, organic-rich substrates. Avoid waterlogging, as it is susceptible to root rot in overly wet soils.
How to save a dying Maytenus magellanica
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or reddish leaves, premature dropping. Dry or brittle branches. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check soil drainage and moisture. Prune dead branches. Protect from strong winds and frost if young.
- What kills it
- Overwatering in heavy soils or lack of protection from severe frosts, especially when young.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's a resilient species, but needs good drainage and initial protection.