Quillaja saponaria

Quillaja saponaria, commonly known as quillay or soapbark tree, is a distinctive evergreen tree native to central Chile. Well adapted to the country’s Mediterranean climate, it tolerates drought, poor soils and considerable temperature variation. The tree develops a dense crown of leathery green leaves and produces clusters of small white, star-shaped flowers, followed by unusual five-parted dry fruits. Its bark is rich in natural saponins, compounds traditionally used as soap and now valued commercially in food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

Common name: Quillay, Soapbark tree, Soap-bark tree
Hardiness: approximately -10 to -12 °C.
Maximum height: approximately 15–20 m
Flowers / fruit: Yes – small white, five-petalled flowers followed by dry, star-shaped fruits containing numerous winged seeds.
Type: Tree · Broadleaf · Evergreen
Soil: adaptable to a range of soils, including relatively poor and dry soils, but performs best in well-drained soil. Once established it is notably drought tolerant and should not be kept persistently wet.