A rare tree in north-west Europe, but the tallest evergreen broadleaved likely to be seen growing anywhere. Also known as Coigüe in the language of the indigenous Mapuche people of South America. Introduced 1916.

Native to Argentina and Chile.

Monoecious. Wind-pollinated. Wind-dispersed.

Tall (40m), the stem often leaning and sinuous, with an ovoid crown. Bark dark grey, smooth with pale lenticel bands, soon cracking into large sharp scales revealing red-hued new bark. Twigs red-brown, closely downy. Foliage evergreen, dark glossy green. Leaves small (2-4cm), thick, broadest at the base, sharp-tipped, with 5-6 vein pairs and irregularly serrate margins. Male flowers in threes with crimson stamens; female cupule 4-6mm with three nutlets. Holm Oak differs: otherwise dissimilar evergreen.

Prefers shelter, humid conditions, on neutral or acidic soils.

No notable associations where introduced.

Generally healthy.

A handsome, unique ornamental, pairing impressive stature with tiny, glossy leaves. Might yet have some potential for timber production in north-west Europe if suitable provenances can be found and silviculture improved.