Rayenia, a new monotypic genus assigned here to the Escalloniaceae, is provided with a description of the type species Rayenia malalcurensis, endemic to San Fabián de Alico, Ñuble Region, Central Chile. Molecular phylogenetics and morphological data support its placement in a new genus, separated from its sister taxon Tribeles australis. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its ecology, conservation status and a key to the genera of Escalloniaceae in South America are given.