Mayten Tree
Maytenus boaria
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Pl. 0517 — Maytenus boaria
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IOverview
Overview
Mayten Tree (Maytenus boaria) is a shrub or small tree native to parts of Argentina and Chile, as well as Bolivia and Brazil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light, medium, or heavy (clay). This plant grows up to 10 meters tall and is known for its edible qualities, making it a valuable source of food in its native range. Its adaptability to various soil types and climate conditions makes Mayten Tree a notable presence in the landscapes of South America. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow in diverse habitats across its wide native range, from Argentina's southern regions to Chile's northern areas.
Quick answers
What is Mayten Tree?
Mayten Tree (Maytenus boaria) is a shrub or small tree native to parts of Argentina and Chile, as well as Bolivia and Brazil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light, medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mayten Tree thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows up to 10 meters tall, adapting well as a shrub or tree. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Ensure the planting site has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mayten Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting process for the Mayten Tree, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Mayten Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space that receives full to partial sun.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Mayten Tree in spring when temperatures are mild and there's no risk of frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining, with a mix that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). For containers, use a potting mix suitable for trees.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling into your prepared container or garden bed. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and place it in the center.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the Mayten Tree regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and continue regular watering during dry periods. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the Mayten Tree annually to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Harvest leaves for culinary use as an optional step.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without drainage, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native· 1 introduced
Americas1 region
native (1)Bolivia
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Chile Central, Chile North, Chile South
introduced:California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 0517994c-803f-4714-9432-0e7d8f3833ed
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