Drimys winteri

Sheltered on the terrace in the Mediterranean Climate garden (area L on downloadable map), Drimys winteri, also known as Winter’s bark, has survived unharmed in spite of the cruel, long winter that has taken many plants in the area. In the past it was known only to survive in milder parts of the country. It is an evergreen shrub (sometimes grown as a tree) and has soft green leaves, silvery beneath, and fragrant ivory-white flowers in loose umbels.

Named after Capt. William Winter, who in the 16th century sailed with Sir Francis Drake; the aromatic bark was very useful for ships’ crews who used it to spice up their food, and also to combat scurvy.

It is native to Chile and Argentina and was introduced to the UK in the early 20th century. The genus Drimys are related to the magnolias, and believed to be one of the most primitive flowering plant families.