Cultivation of Orites Myrtoideus

Abstract

Orites myrtoideus (Poepp. & Endl.) Engl. is an evergreen shrub in the family Proteaceae, endemic to the Andes of both Chile and Argentina. With a small distribution and increasing risks, direct conservation action has been recommended. Ex situ cultivation and subsequent translocation of populations may be an option for the conservation of this species. In recent documented history this species has been grown ex situ on only a small number of occasions. One plant was grown outside at Benmore Botanic Garden for a period of five years and another has been grown at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh as part of the Arid Lands collections. A better understanding of its cultivation requirements has been deemed necessary before ex situ collections can be established.This study aims to give a broad overview of the germination and first 12 months of cultivation of this taxon with the aim of informing future ex situ cultivation and subsequent restoration initiatives.