Maquei (Aristotelia chilensis)

Also known as: Maqui berry

The leaves of A. chilensis, or Chilean myrtle, are evergreen, simple, and arranged oppositely. They are lanceolate to oval in shape, with a smooth, glossy green surface. The leaves have serrated edges and are leathery in texture. The veins are prominently visible, and the petioles are distinctly red.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Maquei

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

4-5 meters (13-16 feet)

Spread

2-3 meters (6.5-10 feet)

Leaf Color

Dark green with a potential red underside

Flower Size

Approximately 0.5 cm (0.2 inches)

Flower Color

White

Images of Maquei

Quickly Identify Maquei

To identify Aristotelia chilensis, look for a small to medium-sized shrub or tree with glossy, elliptical leaves that have finely toothed edges. The flowers are small and white, forming clusters, while the fruit is a dark purple berry. The leaves may also have a characteristic red coloration on the underside.

Scientific Classification of Maquei

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Oxalidales

Family

Elaeocarpus

Genus

Maquei

Species

Maquei

Planting and Growing of Maquei

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Leaves, Branches

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Maquei?

Aristotelia chilensis requires watering to ensure the soil is well-moistened but not waterlogged. Aim for around 500ml per watering session. A good rule of thumb is to water until you notice the excess starting to drain from the bottom of the pot, indicating the soil has been adequately moistened.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Maquei? ›

What should I do if my Maquei is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Maquei? ›

How to save an overwatered Maquei? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Maquei?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Partial to full sun exposure for 6 to 8 hours promotes healthy foliage, vibrant color, and optimal fruit production while mitigating the risk of sunburn.

How much sunlight does Aristotelia chilensis need? ›

What are the solutions to get ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Maquei?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Aristotelia chilensis, also known as the Maqui berry plant, is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and fruit production, ensuring the plant thrives and maintains healthy physiological functions.

What Soil is Best for Maquei?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

The soil for Aristotelia chilensis must have excellent drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions. Proper drainage helps avoid root rot and other water-related diseases, ensuring the plant thrives with a robust root system. A balanced soil rich in organic matter is essential for Aristotelia chilensis. This provides the necessary nutrients that promote healthy growth and vibrant berry production, contributing to the plant's overall vitality and fruiting ability. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated. Maintaining this balance supports steady growth and prevents stress during dry periods, particularly in the plant's establishment phase.

How to Fertilize Maquei?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Aristotelia chilensis, the recommended amount of fertilizer varies depending on the plant's age and the soil conditions. Generally, young plants benefit from a diluted liquid fertilizer solution applied twice monthly, while mature plants can thrive with a slow-release granular fertilizer applied three times a year, ensuring the soil remains fertile. Over-fertilizing should be avoided as it can harm the plant.

How to Prune Maquei?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start your pruning by removing any dead or damaged branches. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on non-productive parts and allows more resources to be allocated to healthy growth. Focus on shaping the plant to maintain its aesthetic appearance and balance. Remove any disproportionately long branches to create a denser and more visually pleasing structure. Trim back the tips of branches to stimulate new growth. This practice will result in a bushier appearance, enhancing the plant's overall look and vigor. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Maquei plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

To propagate by seed, begin by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, encouraging faster germination. Plant in seed starter mix about 1/4 inch deep.

Select healthy, semi-hardwood stems for cuttings. Make an angled cut below a leaf node, approximately 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves before planting in rooting medium.

Dip the cut end of the cutting in rooting hormone to stimulate root development. Plant the cutting in a pot of moist, well-draining potting mix and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Maquei plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting signals for Aristotelia chilensis include roots poking out from the drainage holes, slowed growth, or soil compacted tightly, indicating a need for fresh soil and more root space.

Opt for a pot that's slightly bigger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. This ensures efficient water drainage and prevents waterlogging, ultimately promoting healthy root growth.

Use well-draining, acidic soil. Such soil prevents root rot by providing aeration, maintaining balance in moisture, and mimicking the plant's natural habitat.