Escallonia pulverulenta, commonly known as Chilean Escallonia, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal and Andean forests of Central Chile, occurring at elevations from sea level to 3,937 feet (1,200 meters). It typically grows to a height of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) with a similar spread, featuring a dense, bushy habit. The leaves are small, glossy, and have a slightly sticky texture, which gives the plant its species name ’pulverulenta’, meaning powdery or dusty. From late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Chilean Escallonia is valued for its hardiness, low maintenance, and the year-round interest it provides with its evergreen foliage and fragrant blooms. It is commonly used in hedges, borders, and as a windbreak in coastal areas due to its tolerance of salt spray. In cultivation, it requires well-drained soils and can thrive in full sun to partial shade. While it is drought-tolerant once established, regular watering during prolonged dry periods will keep it looking its best.CC BY-SA 4.0