Chiliotrichum diffusum

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae

What it is like

Chiliotrichum diffusum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

The dominant or sub-dominant species in shrub communities at the margins and in clearings of evergreen and deciduous forests, drier parts of bogs, rock crevices and streamsides.

Southern S. America - Falkland Islands, Argentina, Chile.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 1

Ophthalmic.

Ophthalmic: Treats eye complaints.

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

Succeeds in a sheltered position in any well-drained moderately fertile soil in full sun. Tolerates dry soils. A good plant for maritime gardens. Succeeds outdoors in the milder areas of Britain but it is not very hardy in other parts of the country. However, it is more cold tolerant than the closely related Olearia spp and can withstand temperatures down to about -5°c or lower when in a suitable position. Another report says that it will tolerate temperatures down to about -12°c. A very variable species, the leaves can range from needle-like to fairly broad. There are several named forms.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but would suggest surface sowing the seed in early spring in a sunny position in a greenhouse. Do not allow the compost to dry out. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 7-10

Growth: Slow

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

C. amelloides. C. amelloides diffusum. C. amelloideum. C. rosmarinifolium. Amellus diffusus.