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Shrub or small tree
Maqui
Aristotelia chilensis
A branching evergreen with pale flowers and abundant purple fruit.
Botanical description
About this species
Maqui is an evergreen shrub or small tree, common in forest gaps and edges in south-central Chile and Argentina. It has opposite leaves with serrated margins, small whitish flowers and dark purple fruit eaten by birds.
Species geography
Natural distribution
Native to ChileWidespread in central and southern Chile, extending into the Andean forests of Neuquén, Río Negro and Chubut.
Habitat. Gaps, forest edges, ravines and open sites with seasonal moisture.
Chile
- Coquimbo
- Valparaíso
- Metropolitana
- O’Higgins
- Maule
- Ñuble
- Biobío
- La Araucanía
- Los Ríos
- Los Lagos
- Aysén
Argentina
- Neuquén
- Río Negro
- Chubut
Latitude range: Approximately 30°–46° S
Species profile
Characteristics
- Local name
- Maqui
- Scientific name
- Aristotelia chilensis
- Plant type
- Shrub or small tree
- Origin
- Native to Chile, also occurring naturally in Argentina.
- Foliage
- Opposite evergreen leaves with serrated edges.
- Distinctive feature
- Clusters of small, dark purple fruit.
- Ecological role
- A pioneer plant and food source for birds.
Getting started
Planting and care
Light
Gentle sun to partial shade, depending on the climate and growth stage.
Watering
Water regularly while roots establish; avoid prolonged dryness and waterlogging.
Soil and planting
Deep, cool, well-drained soil. Organic mulch helps retain moisture.
Suitable conditions depend on the plant’s provenance, soil and microclimate. Check recommendations for your project with the nursery before planting.