Quite unusual in cultivation, Polylepis australis is native to Central Argentina. It fits well into most gardens that have a little elbow room. Generally, its flowers are quite unimpressive but its best attraction is its rolls of loose, paper-like exfoliating brownish bark, which makes a fantastic feature. That, along with its mostly evergreen foliage, justifies giving this small tree a spot in your garden.
Site: Fairly sheltered Position: Full sun to partial shade Soil: Well-drained acid or lime Seasons of interest: Early Spring; Autumn Hardiness: Hardy Height: 18ft (6+m) Spread: 10ft (3m)
