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Care of the plant Myrceugenia exsucca or Petra.

Care of the tree Myrceugenia exsucca or Petra

The genus Myrceugenia, family Myrtaceae, comprises 40 species of trees and shrubs native to South America. Some species are: Myrceugenia exsucca, Myrceugenia obtusa, Myrceugenia scutellata, Myrceugenia bracteosa, Myrceugenia correifolia.

Common name: Petra. This species is native to Chile.

They are small trees or shrubs with a curious trunk with longitudinal fissures that reach 10 meters (32.8 feet) in height. The elliptical leaves are opposite, aromatic and dark green on the upper side and light green on the underside. They produce white flowers with 4 petals and long stamens. They bloom in summer. The fruits are berry-shaped.

They are used next to waterways, swimming pools, ponds or wet areas of the garden, even in water.

Myrceugenia exsucca can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposure. They resist frosts of -8 ºC (17.6 ºF).

The soil must contain abundant organic matter. They do not withstand very drained or very poor soils.

Water frequently and abundantly throughout the year; they can grow with the base of the plant in water. They do not resist drought.

Fertilize with compost in late winter.

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact appearance.

They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases.

They are propagated from seeds sown in spring.

Images of the tree Myrceugenia exsucca or Petra

Myrceugenia exsucca
Myrceugenia exsucca
Myrceugenia exsucca