Winter's Bark
drimys winteri
Also known as: ["Winter Bark","Canelo","Winter's Winter Bark"]
Overview
A deciduous or evergreen shrub or small tree native to the temperate rainforests of South America, known for its aromatic bark and leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Canellales |
| Family: | Winteraceae |
| Genus: | Drimys |
| Botanical Name: | Drimys winteri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C, tolerates brief frosts to -5°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days, especially in dry indoor environments
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, acidic, well-draining soil with organic matter like peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct midday sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in active growth or dry conditions
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply to encourage root growth; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter
pH: Acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 50–75°F (10–24°C); thrives in cool, humid conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peaty, well-draining mix such as perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote airflow and light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove crossing branches; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot and soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; use acidic soil amendments if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop; growth slows or halts in temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; maintain humidity around the plant.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C); reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Drimys winteri berries may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The toxic effects are generally limited to digestive discomfort, with no severe systemic toxicity reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Drimys winteri berries may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive tract, causing discomfort but typically not posing a serious health risk.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDrimys winteri berries contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to the digestive system, with no severe systemic effects reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Winter's Bark toxic to pets?
A: No, Winter's Bark is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of Winter's Bark?
A: The bark and leaves are used for their aromatic qualities and have historical medicinal uses.
Q: Does Winter's Bark attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers and foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Winteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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