Common Name:

General Information

Aloysia virgata is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a light, open crown; it can grow 4 - 6 metres tall. The bole, which usually branches from low down, can be 15 - 25cm in diameter[].
The tree is sometimes harvested from the wild for local use of its wood and for its leaves, which can be used as a sandpaper. It is also often grown as a hedge and is a useful pioneer species for re-establishing woodland. A very ornamental plant when in bloom, its small size makes it a good tree for planting in streets, especially where there are overhead power lines[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, Bolivia, Peru.

Habitat

Usually found in well-drained soils, growing in open places and in secondary formations in semideciduous and altitude forests[].

Properties

Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	5.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Pollinators	Bees
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Prefers a sunny position[]. Prefers a well-drained soil[]. Established plants are drought tolerant[].
Plants are fairly fast growing[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses:

The plant is commonly used as a hedge in Argentina and Cuba[].
A fast-growing, natural pioneer species, it is suitable for use in reforestation projects[].
The nectar-rich flowers are very attractive to bees[].

Other Uses

The leaves have a very rough surface and have been used like a fine sandpaper to smooth the surfaces of wood, gourds etc[].

The wood is medium-textured, moderately heavy, hard, of good mechanical resistance but of low durability when exposed to the weather[]. Its small dimensions restrict its use to items such as tool handles, lathe work etc[].

Propagation

Seed - it retains its viability for at least six months, even when stored at room temperature[]. Sow the seed in a lightly shaded position in a nursery seedbed and only just cover the seed. A high germination rate can be expected, with the seeds sprouting within 7 - 14 days[]. Transplant the seedlings into individual containers when 3 - 5cm tall and they should be ready to plant out 4 - 5 months later[].

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