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Photorealistic view of Calafate (Berberis microphylla)

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Shrub

Calafate

Berberis microphylla

A spiny shrub with yellow flowers and dark blue berries, characteristic of southern landscapes.

Price in Chilean pesosCLP 3,000
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Botanical description

About this species

Calafate is a shrub in the Berberidaceae family, widespread in temperate and Patagonian environments in Chile and Argentina. Its spiny branches carry small leathery leaves, yellow flowers and fleshy fruit ranging from bluish to almost black.

Species geography

Natural distribution

Native to Chile

Has an extensive, discontinuous range from central Chile to Magallanes and throughout Argentine Patagonia.

Habitat. Open scrub, forest gaps, steppe and slopes, from temperate to far southern environments.

Chile

  • Metropolitana
  • O’Higgins
  • Maule
  • Ñuble
  • Biobío
  • La Araucanía
  • Los Ríos
  • Los Lagos
  • Aysén
  • Magallanes

Argentina

  • Neuquén
  • Río Negro
  • Chubut
  • Santa Cruz
  • Tierra del Fuego
Patagonian steppeAndean-Patagonian forestSubantarctic forest

Latitude range: Approximately 33°–55° S

Natural distribution of CalafateCalafate: Has an extensive, discontinuous range from central Chile to Magallanes and throughout Argentine Patagonia. The map includes Islas Malvinas / Falkland Islands, territory administered by the United Kingdom and claimed by Argentina.Magallanes, ChileAysén, ChileMetropolitana, ChileLos Lagos, ChileLos Ríos, ChileLa Araucanía, ChileBiobío, ChileÑuble, ChileMaule, ChileO’Higgins, ChileChubut, ArgentinaNeuquén, ArgentinaRío Negro, ArgentinaSanta Cruz, ArgentinaTierra del Fuego, ArgentinaIslas Malvinas / Falkland Islands. Territory administered by the United Kingdom and claimed by Argentina.
Approximate natural distribution based on botanical sources; it does not show cultivation, sales or every known population.

Species profile

Characteristics

Local name
Calafate
Scientific name
Berberis microphylla
Plant type
Shrub
Origin
Native to Chile, also occurring naturally in Argentina.
Foliage
Small, leathery leaves clustered on short shoots.
Distinctive feature
Spines, yellow flowers and dark blue berries.
Ecological role
Birds and other animals eat its fruit.

Getting started

Planting and care

Light

Plenty of light in a cool environment; protect young plants from extreme heat and wind.

Watering

Water regularly while roots establish, without saturating the growing medium.

Soil and planting

Cool, well-drained soil. Ask the nursery about suitability for warm or coastal sites.

Suitable conditions depend on the plant’s provenance, soil and microclimate. Check recommendations for your project with the nursery before planting.