Photographed 4/19/2009, Cistus Nursery, Sauvie Island, Oregon, copyright © 2009, Ian Barclay.

Family: Rosaceae Native to: central Argentina in high mountains Dimensions: small tree to 15 - 25' tall with greater spread, can be shrubby in suboptimal conditions Cold resistance: hardy to 10 - 12°F Drought resistance: moderate; prefers summer water, but on heavy soil it's reasonably drought tolerant once established Key Features: amazing flaky red bark, appealing contorted habit with age, easy to grow Uses: small specimen tree, tolerates coastal conditions Description: Polylepis is a genus of trees that is widespread throughout the high Andes of South America, known for their amazing contorted shapes and flaky red bark. Towards the southern part of the Andes grow some species that will adapt well enough here in the Pacific Northwest, including this exciting plant from central and northern Argentina at high altitudes. It is evergreen with pinnately compound green leaves; the flowers are inconspicuous. Eventually achieving the stature of a decent sized tree when happy, it prefers summer water for best results, and will grow very quickly on heavily amended soil. At the same time, it is pretty tough and moderately drought tolerant; it just won’t grow as fast or as large under harsh conditions, possibly remaining shrubby. Polylepis doesn’t do well with heat, and will grow fastest in spring and fall in our climate. Also, you’ll want to protect it from deer when young.

Photographed 7/14/2009, The Desert Northwest, Sequim, Washington, copyright © 2009, Ian Barclay.

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All text, images and art copyright © 2000 - 2025, Ian Barclay.