Botanical name:

Coriaria arborea

Common name(s):

Tutu

Plant facts:

Tutu is recognised as a classic poisonous plant in New Zealand. This native species is widely distributed across the country, often found along stream banks and within regenerating native bush. Historically, the introduction of various animals by Captain Cook in the 18th century led to some being poisoned by Tutu.

The plant is characterised by its many branches, which are adorned with pairs of long, glossy, green, elliptical leaves that lack a leaf stalk. In addition to its distinctive foliage, Tutu produces flowers that droop on spikes reaching up to 30cm long, ultimately bearing black fruit. It is essential to exercise caution around this plant due to its toxic properties.

Natural habitat:

Occurs in shrub-land and in open places in the coastal and montane forest from sea level to 1000m.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Wind, Coastal, Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Throughout New Zealand and the Chatham Islands

Height: 6m

Flowering:

September – February with a green coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

November – April with a purplish-black fruit

Uses:

Riparian plantings, Forests & Pioneer Plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though