Crinodendron hookerianum-Chilean Lantern Tree in 9 cm Pot

A beautiful plant of great merit which has been granted the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Introduced from Chile in 1848 by William Lobb it is less well known than deserved. Perhaps the combination of its intolerance of chalky soil and the need for some protection against the coldest weather discourages people from growing it. A specimen in Hilliers Arboretum in Hampshire has survived for many years, despite some cold winters. It is however likely that plants in the north of the Uk may not survive unless protected. If you can provide a chalk free soil, some shade form the hottest sun and protection from the worst winter weather you can accommodate a plant of considerable beauty. The red flowers are an unusual lantern shape. They hang in abundance in late spring. This plant can be used in a mixed planting or as a stand alone specimen in the garden or can easily be grown in a pot or other container as long as you ensure the pot does not freeze. Use a good quality ericaceous John Innes compost as this plant will be there a long time and peaty types of compost eventually degrade, become too packed and choke the roots. Ensure you feed regularly as a hungry plant is a poor performer.