Azorella caespitosa

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species 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. It should also be very tolerant of maritime exposure. A mat forming plant, it can be up to 60cm in diameter. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Requires a position in full sun in a well-drained gritty soil.

Propagation

Seed - we have no details for this species but suggest sowing the seed in late winter in a cold frame. Grow on for at least the first winter in a greenhouse or frame and plant out in late spring. Division.

Edible uses

Root - raw or cooked.

Medicinal uses

Hepatic. It is used in the treatment of liver and kidney problems.

Material uses

A resin is obtained from the plant. Its uses are not given in the report but are possibly connected to its medicinal properties.

Habitat

Sands, gravels and rocky areas, open grassland and dry Empetrum heath to 50 metres above sea level. Plants grow wild as far north as latitude 51°s in Chile and latitude 41°s in Argentina.

Native range

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