🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Maqui berries are edible, high in antioxidants, and used in jams, juices, and winemaking. The leaves are used medicinally for anti-inflammatory purposes and may be used to create natural dyes. It is also planted for its ornamental value, attracting pollinators and providing bird habitat. The tree can be used in windbreaks.
Permapeople description
Aristotelia chilensis, also known as Maqui berry, is a tree native to South America. It's known for its small, dark purple berries that are rich in antioxidants. The berries are consumed fresh or processed into juices, powders, and supplements.
Botanical description
Aristotelia chilensis is an evergreen dioecious tree native to Chile and Argentina. It typically grows to a height of 13 to 16 feet, but can reach up to 50 feet under optimal conditions. The leaves are opposite, ovate-lanceolate, serrated, and dark green. The flowers are small, white to greenish-white, and arranged in axillary cymes. The fruit is a small, dark purple to black berry, approximately 0.2 to 0.3 inches in diameter. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade.
Companion planting
No specific companion planting information is widely available for Maqui. However, general principles suggest planting alongside other shade-tolerant, forest-edge species may be beneficial. Avoid planting near plants that require extremely dry conditions.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require stratification for improved germination rates. Semi-hardwood cuttings can also be taken in late summer. Layering is also possible.
History and traditions
The Mapuche people of Chile have a long history of using maqui berries for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. They traditionally used the berries to make a fermented beverage called 'teku.' The leaves were also used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, including inflammation and diarrhea. The plant is considered sacred in Mapuche culture.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring. Berries ripen in late summer to autumn (February to March in the Southern Hemisphere). Planting is best done in autumn or spring. Pruning, if needed, should be done in late winter or early spring.