The Andes' Orange Secret: The Magic of the Mutisias

If you visit the Trevelin and Esquel region during the summer, there is a subtle yet vibrant presence that follows you along every trail, climbing the trunks of the Andean forest: the Mutisia.

This flower is more than just a visual beauty; it is a symbol of our region's identity and a treasure that every nature lover should learn to recognize.

Mutisia Recurrens

A Regional Symbol: The Emblem Flower

It is impossible to speak of this species without mentioning its cultural significance: the Mutisia is the official Emblem Flower of the city of Esquel. Chosen for its resilience and unique beauty, it represents the strength of life in the Andes.

The Mutisia became the flower of Esquel due to a Patagonian legend of forbidden love. According to the myth, two Mapuche lovers, tragically separated, were transformed into this orange-flowered vine that climbs and embraces the trees. This symbolizes their eternal union, endurance, and beauty, turning the flower into a local icon that represents the soul of Patagonia.

Not All Are Created Equal: The Virreina and the Reina Mora

During your walks through the forest, you are likely to encounter two different versions of the Mutisia:

• Mutisia Virreina (Mutisia decurrens): the most well-known variety, famous for its fiery, almost electric orange petals that stand out brilliantly against the green foliage.

• Mutisia Reina Mora (Mutisia spinosa): A slightly more discreet but equally beautiful gem. It is distinguished by its soft pink or lilac tones, and its leaves tend to have a rounder, more delicate shape.

It is a climbing plant that uses native trees as support to reach toward the sun, creating cascades of flowers that seem to fall from the sky.

Where to find them

While our valley is famous for the agrotourism of tulips and peonies, the Mutisias reign supreme in the wild:

• Los Alerces National Park: Look for them in the transition zones where sunlight reaches the forest floor.

• Local Natural Reserves: Such as the Nant y Fall waterfalls, where the perfect balance of humidity and sunlight creates their ideal environment.

• Mountain Trails.

Traveler tip

If you are a photography lover, the best time to capture their true color is during golden hour (at sunset), when the sunlight further enhances the fiery orange of their petals.

Come and discover the natural treasures of Trevelin! Patagonia is not just something to see; it’s something to feel in every detail of the forest.