All About Chile's National Flower: The Copihue

Nestled along the western edge of South America, with the Pacific Ocean to its west and the majestic Andes to its east, lies Chile – a nation rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and captivating flora.

Chile’s biodiversity is truly something to admire, but one emblematic flower stands tall among its many natural treasures – the national flower, the Copihue or Chilean Bellflower (Lapageria rosea).

The Copihue, with its elegance, grace, and resilience, perfectly embodies the spirit of the Chilean people and land. Dive into this article and uncover the many layers of this stunning flower’s charm and significance.

Contents show

Description of The Copihue

The Copihue, scientifically known as Lapageria rosea, belongs to the Philesiaceae family. This evergreen climber vine is best known for its striking, bell-shaped flowers that make a delightful sight when they cascade down the plant’s slender green vines.

The blooms are usually a vibrant, deep red, but can also be found in shades of pink, white, and even bicolored. They measure approximately 7-10 cm in length and 5-7 cm in diameter, with six waxy, thick, and lanceolate petals that protect the delicate interior from the elements. The interior contains several fleshy white structures, the staminodes, which surround the flower’s reproductive organs.

Typically, the Copihue flowers from late summer to autumn, with each bloom lasting for several days. Adding to its appeal is the plant’s glossy, dark green leaves, which create a beautiful contrast against the brightly colored flowers.

Where Does The Copihue Grow?

The Copihue, a testament to the diversity of Chile’s flora, is endemic to the temperate rainforests of southern Chile. It thrives under the shelter of taller trees, enjoying the moisture and shade provided by the forest canopy. With its deep-rooting system, it tolerates a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained, humus-rich soils.

Its natural range spans from Valparaiso to Palena, where it can be found at elevations up to 2000 meters. Over time, this hardy climber has proven its resilience and adaptability, withstanding the often-harsh climate and conditions of Chile’s temperate rainforests.

The Copihue in The Ecosystem

The Copihue, with its large, bell-shaped flowers, plays a significant role in its ecosystem. The flowers’ nectar serves as a vital food source for several species of birds and insects, helping maintain the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem.

For instance, the green-backed firecrown hummingbird, known locally as the Picaflor chico, is a frequent visitor to Copihue plants, contributing to pollination as it sips the sweet nectar.

In addition, the plant’s dense foliage provides shelter and habitat for various smaller creatures, while its root system helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion in the hilly and mountainous terrains where it grows.

The Copihue’s role isn’t limited to environmental benefits; its very existence serves as a symbol of the rich biodiversity of Chile’s temperate rainforests, highlighting the importance of conserving these unique and diverse habitats.

Symbolism and Meaning: Why and When Did The Copihue Become the National Flower of Chile?

The Copihue, also known as the Chilean Bellflower, was declared the national flower of Chile in 1984. Its bright red flowers and tenacious nature have made it a potent symbol of the strength and resilience of the Chilean people.

The Copihue also has a deep cultural and historical significance in Chile. The Mapuche people, one of the largest indigenous groups in the country, consider the flower sacred and have incorporated it into numerous legends and traditional ceremonies.

One of the most popular legends tells the tragic love story of a brave warrior and a beautiful maiden, whose forbidden love was symbolized by the flower.

Choosing the Copihue as the national flower is not merely a recognition of its beauty and ecological importance, but also a tribute to Chile’s rich indigenous culture and history.

Names of The Copihue

The scientific name of the Copihue is Lapageria rosea. ‘Lapageria‘ was named in honor of Empress Josephine, the wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, whose maiden name was Lapagerie. ‘Rosea‘ comes from the Latin for rose-colored, describing the flower’s stunning color.

In addition to the Copihue, it’s also known as the Chilean Bellflower or Chilean Glory Flower. However, in its native country, the term ‘Copihue’ (which comes from the Mapuche word “kopiwe”) is the most recognized and cherished. As a symbol deeply embedded in the nation’s identity, the name ‘Copihue’ is synonymous with the strength, beauty, and resilience of Chile.

Interesting Facts About The Copihue

The Copihue is an evergreen climber, capable of reaching heights of up to 10 meters.
The flower has six tepals which form a tubular bell-shaped structure. It can come in different shades, most commonly red, but there are also pink and white varieties.
The fruit of the Copihue is an elongated berry, containing numerous small seeds. These seeds are dispersed by birds and small mammals that eat the fruit.
The Copihue is included in the Red Book of Chilean Flora, a registry that lists endangered plant species. This is due to the destruction of its natural habitat and excessive collection of the flowers.
In Mapuche mythology, the Copihue represents the love story between a warrior and a maiden who loved each other but belonged to different clans, so their love was forbidden.

How to Grow The Copihue

Growing Copihue requires patience and commitment, as it’s a slow-growing plant. Here are some guidelines:

Light and Temperature: The Copihue prefers shady conditions and cool temperatures. It does not tolerate frost or high temperatures.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter. You can improve your soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure.
Water: Copihue needs frequent watering, especially during the growing season. However, make sure to avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Propagation: The most common way to propagate Copihue is by seeds, which should be sown in a seed tray filled with good-quality seed compost. It can also be propagated by cuttings, but this is usually less successful.
Care: Once established, the Copihue requires little maintenance. Pruning should be done to remove dead or damaged branches.

Remember, growing Copihue may be a long-term commitment, but the reward of seeing this magnificent flower in bloom is worth it.

Other Beautiful Flowers Native To Chile

Chile’s diverse climates, from the driest desert in the north to the glacial regions in the south, allow for a wide array of unique and stunning flora. Some other notable flowers native to Chile include:

Chilean Firebush (Embothrium coccineum): This shrub or small tree blossoms with striking, fiery red flowers. It thrives in the humid coastal areas of Chile.
Alstroemeria, or Peruvian Lily: Despite its common name, several species of this flower are native to Chile. They are known for their bright, beautiful colors and distinctive markings.
Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana): While it’s more famous for its unique, prehistoric-looking branches and leaves, this tree also produces an interesting, cone-like flower.
Llareta (Azorella compacta): Found in the high Andes, this plant forms large, dense mounds that look almost like moss-covered rocks. It produces small, yellow flowers.
Neneo (Mulinum spinosum): This spiky plant thrives in the Patagonian steppe and is known for its aromatic, small white flowers.

Final Thoughts

The Copihue, or Chilean Bellflower, serves not only as a symbol of Chilean national pride but also as a testament to the country’s rich biodiversity. Its striking beauty and cultural significance make it a cherished emblem for the people of Chile.

Whether you’ve encountered it in the wild, grown it in your own garden, or simply appreciate its beauty from afar, we’d love to hear your story.