Polylepis australis – Tabaquillo

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)