Nothofagus antarctica Tree

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Northofagus antarctica Antarctic tree branches

Northofagus antarctica Antarctic green leaves

Northofagus antarctica Antarctic autumn leaves

Northofagus antarctica Antarctic green summer leaves

Tree Information

Specialities

Tolerances

Wet Soil: Medium

Dry Soil: Medium

Lime: Low

First introduced to Britain in the early 1830s, Nothofagus antarctica, commonly known as the Antarctic Beech, is a species of deciduous tree native to Chile, South America. ‘Nothofagus’ is Latin for False Beech, and whilst this tree is related to the Beech, it differs in that it has smaller leaves.

One of the most notable characteristics of this tree is its ability to adapt to extreme environments. Nothofagus antarctica is known for its resilience and tolerance to cold temperatures, making it a key component of the Antarctic forests that thrive in the southern regions of Chile. The Antarctic beech plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of these forests, with its dense foliage that provides shelter for birds and other mammals. Its fallen leaves enrich the soil with organic matter and the tree itself acts as windbreaker for other plants. It is extremely wind tolerant making it an ideal tree for coastal planting.

Overall, the Nothofagus antartica is a majestic and hardy tree. It’s ability to thrive in challenging climates make it a perfect tree for sheltered pockets of parkland, coastal areas, and large gardens

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Size

Medium

7m high x 4m wide after 25 years

Environment

Great for coastal areas, avenues and parks.

Canopy

Likes fertile, moist and well-drained soil, but not lime. Will thrive in nutrient rich soil. Plant in full sun to partial shade. Fast growing and broadly conical. The main trunks grow vertically and branches have an irregular growth pattern. Dark green branches are often curiously twisted.

Foliage

Leaves are small, rounded and heart shaped. They are irregularly toothed, crinkled and glossy and crispy in texture. Dark green in colour and transition to vibrant shades of yellow and orange during autumn. Sweetly scented.

Flowers

Greenish yellow fragrant flowers in spring.

Fruit

Brown nutlets in autumn.

Resilience

Likes fertile, moist and well-drained soil, but not lime. Will thrive in nutrient rich soil. Plant in full sun to partial shade.