Ugni Turcz. (1848), in the family Myrtaceae, contains around 10 species in South America, of which U. molinae Turcz. is often cultivated and is described here.

Description Shrub to 2m. The leaves are opposite, ovate, dark green above and pale beneath. The flowers are solitary, cup-shaped, pointing downwards, pinkish, waxy, and scented. Sepals 5, equal, narrow, and pointed, joined at the base, the lobes reflexed in bud; petals usually 5. Stamens numerous, shorter than the petals. Ovary inferior, with 3 fused carpels containing numerous ovules; style 1. Pollination is presumed to be by insects. The fruits are dark red, fleshy, aromatic berries, smelling of wild strawberries (Fragaria vesca L.), with few seeds.

Key Recognition Features The myrtle-like, aromatic leaves and nodding, pinkish flowers.

Evolution and Relationships Previously called Myrtus ugni Molina, but distinct from the myrtles in its cup-shaped flowers and short stamens.

Ecology and Geography In scrub and on the edges of forest, in southern Chile.

Comment An attractive shrub with unusual flowers and delicious fruit.

Photograph: Ugni molinae