Cantua buxifolia (Peruvian Magic Tree)

Recorded by Collette Copeland at Huaran, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Peru, March 8, 2026, 7:30am. 4 miles from Viva Peru, Huraran, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Peru. The Zoom mic was placed midway up the tree to capture the ambient sounds. Birds in the background include: Southern house wren, Sparkling violetear, White-bellied hummingbird, Fufous-collared sparrow. Pollinators (bees) also in the background.

The sacred flower of the Incas.

Flowers and leaves of the Cantua buxifolia (Peruvian Magic Tree). Image: Colette Copeland

Peruvian Magic Tree or Cantua Tree (Cantua buxifolia — buxifolia is Latin for leaves like a box). A resilient evergreen shrub growing up to 13 feet tall. Small leaves and clusters of narrow pink tubular flowers. It is vital to the Andean ecosystem, acting as a nectar source for hummingbirds and pollinators. The tree supports biodiversity in harsh climates, thriving in high altitudes. Andean communities use the plant to treat diarrhea and jaundice, and use its twigs for weaving. The stems and leaves are used to produce a natural yellow dye. Considered the sacred flower of the Incas, the plant was used in traditional celebrations, often representing the Sun God. The cantua blossom is the national flower of Peru. The flower symbolizes unity of the people, the colours refer to a legend of an ancient Incan king’s sons. The green leaves represent hope.