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Photorealistic view of Culén (Otholobium glandulosum)

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Shrub or small tree

Culén

Otholobium glandulosum

An aromatic legume with three-part leaves and bluish to violet flowers.

The catalogue keeps the scientific name under which this species was recorded. Its currently accepted name is Grimolobium glandulosum.

Price in Chilean pesosCLP 3,000
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Botanical description

About this species

Culén is an aromatic legume that usually grows as a shrub or small tree. It can be recognised by its compound leaves with three leaflets and clusters of bluish or violet flowers. Its native range extends through the Andean region into Chile.

Species geography

Natural distribution

Native to Chile

In Chile it occurs from the far north to Los Ríos. Its native range continues into Bolivia and Perú, beyond this map.

Habitat. Ravines, slopes, watercourse edges and disturbed sites in the Andean and Mediterranean belt.

Chile

  • Arica y Parinacota
  • Tarapacá
  • Coquimbo
  • Valparaíso
  • Metropolitana
  • O’Higgins
  • Maule
  • Ñuble
  • Biobío
  • La Araucanía
  • Los Ríos

The natural range extends into Bolivia and Perú, beyond the area shown on this map.

Chilean Mediterranean zoneAndean scrubSclerophyll forest

Latitude range: Approximately 18°–40° S in Chile

Natural distribution of CulénCulén: In Chile it occurs from the far north to Los Ríos. Its native range continues into Bolivia and Perú, beyond this map. The map includes Islas Malvinas / Falkland Islands, territory administered by the United Kingdom and claimed by Argentina.Arica y Parinacota, ChileTarapacá, ChileCoquimbo, ChileValparaíso, ChileMetropolitana, ChileLos Ríos, ChileLa Araucanía, ChileBiobío, ChileÑuble, ChileMaule, ChileO’Higgins, ChileIslas 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
Culén
Scientific name
Otholobium glandulosum
Plant type
Shrub or small tree
Origin
Native to Chile, also occurring naturally in Bolivia and Perú.
Foliage
Aromatic, gland-dotted leaves with three leaflets.
Distinctive feature
Clusters of bluish or violet flowers.
Taxonomic note
The currently accepted name is Grimolobium glandulosum.

Getting started

Planting and care

Light

Sun or light partial shade, with gradual acclimatisation after transplanting.

Watering

Moderate watering while establishing; space it out once rooted, according to the site.

Soil and planting

Good drainage is preferred. Avoid compacted soil and adapt care to the local climate.

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