Botanical name:

Ackama rosifolia

Common name(s):

Makamaka

About:

This small, bushy tree or shrub is a Northland native, featuring light green leaves with a reddish underside. It spreads up to 4m wide and blooms in spring, producing clusters of tiny white flowers that mature into striking pink-red seed capsules. Ideal for planting near waterways and streams, it thrives in moist soil and grows quickly, making it a beautiful and practical addition to the landscape.

Natural habitat:

Lowland forest, forest margins and stream-sides.

Growing environment:

Sun & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North Island only from near Kaitaia south to just north of Wellsford. Often rather local in its occurrences, particularly south of Whangarei.

Height: 6m

Flowering:

September-November with a dense sprays of cream coloured flowers.

Fruiting:

January-March with pinkish or red fruits.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Can be grown from semi-hardwood cuttings and fresh seed. A fast growing, and rather attractive small tree. However, very drought intolerant, and needs a damp soil and sunny aspect to thrive.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.