What is Eucryphia?

Eucryphia is a plant genus that is part of the Cunoniaceae family. It contains about seven species of shrubs and small trees that are native to South America and Australia. They feature dark green leaves that are toothed and cream colored flowers that are sweetly scented. This genus of shrubs is an ideal container plant or border shrub. Most of the plants in this genus are pest and disease free.

The genus name is derived from the Greek words eu and kryphios, which translate to "well" and "hidden," respectively. This is believed to describe the cup-shaped structure of the flower. Each species has its own common name. For example, Eucryphia glutinosa is called nirrhe, and Eucryphia lucida is commonly referred to as leatherwood.

About five species are native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia, while two species are found in the southern parts of South America. Eucryphia cordifolia is found in the rain forests of southern Chile, and Eucryphia glutinosa is native to southern Chile and Argentina. E. jinksii is found in Queensland and New South Wales, while E. lucida is found in Tasmania.

The Eucryphia genus has several cultivars, which are different varieties of the same species, and hybrids, which are produced from the cross breeding of two natural species. Cultivars usually enhance a specific quality of a plant, such as flower color. Hybrids blend together favorable characteristics from two species. E. × nymansensis is a hybrid produced from E. cordifolia and E. glutinosa.

Some of the appealing qualities of this genus include the glossy leaves and cup-shaped flowers. Typically, E. glutinosa will grow 33 feet (10 m) in height and spread about 20 feet (6 m) in width. The foliage of this species changes from dark green in the spring and summer to orange and red in the fall. The other species in this genus are evergreen.

It is recommended to plant E. glutinosa in well-draining, acidic soil so that it can grow well. The shrub can tolerate loamy, sandy, and clay soil. It is also best to plant it in an area that has adequate sunlight. The canopy will spread evenly if the entirety of it is exposed to sunlight. Usually, this species is propagated by seeds, which should be stored in a cool, dry container until it is time to plant. It takes about two weeks for the seeds to germinate.