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Shrub or tree
Ñirre
Nothofagus antarctica
A cold-tolerant deciduous Nothofagus with a highly variable growth habit.
Botanical description
About this species
Ñirre is widespread in cold and southern environments in Chile and Argentina. Depending on the site, it may grow as a tree or a low shrub. Its small leaves have wavy or toothed margins and turn yellow and reddish in autumn.
Species geography
Natural distribution
Native to ChileOccupies cold environments from south-central Chile to Tierra del Fuego, with a broad range across Argentine Patagonia.
Habitat. Open woodland, wet meadows, peatland margins and cold or exposed sites.
Chile
- Maule
- Ñuble
- Biobío
- La Araucanía
- Los Ríos
- Los Lagos
- Aysén
- Magallanes
Argentina
- Neuquén
- Río Negro
- Chubut
- Santa Cruz
- Tierra del Fuego
Latitude range: Approximately 35°–56° S
Species profile
Characteristics
- Local name
- Ñirre
- Scientific name
- Nothofagus antarctica
- Plant type
- Shrub or tree
- Origin
- Native to Chile, also occurring naturally in Argentina.
- Foliage
- Small deciduous leaves with wavy or toothed margins.
- Distinctive feature
- Variable growth habit and strong autumn colour.
- Ecological role
- Tolerates conditions associated with open woodland.
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.