Botanical name:

Alseuosmia pusilla

Common name(s):

About:

This low-growing shrub is found in wet lowland and montane forests from East Cape southward to South Westland. Reaching about 50cm in height, it features narrow oval leaves mottled with red tinges. Its red or yellow flowers are followed by bright red berries, adding visual interest. Well-suited as a filler for shady areas, it thrives in damp, sheltered conditions.

Natural habitat:

Lowland to montane forests

Growing environment:

Shade, Wetland, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North Island from Te Moehau and Mt Pirongia south, in mainly montane sites. South Island, in the west only from North-West Nelson to near Okarito

Height: 50cm

Flowering:

Spring/summer with a red/yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Forests

How to grow:

Can be grown from semi-hardwood cuttings though these strike with varying degrees of success. Seed is often hard to germinate. Prefers a semi-shaded site in a cool place with permanently damp soil. Slow growing and prone to sudden collapse during dry spells. However, next to A.macrophylla this is the easiest species to cultivate