Macachi
Arjona patagonica

Family: Santalaceae

What it is like

Arjona patagonica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 0.2

Where it is found

Sands and shingle, open grassland and scrub from sea level to 250 metres from Tierra Del Fuego north to latitude 50°s in Chile.

Southern S. America

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 2

Tuber - raw or cooked. Prized for eating.

Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have very little information on this plant and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. Going by its native habitat it should be very wind resistant and probably requires a light to medium well-drained soil in a sunny position.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no details for this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a greenhouse. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

A. tuberosa. non Cav.