Botanical name:

Corynocarpus laevigatus

Common name(s):

Karaka

About:

An attractive tree, known for its large, thick, glossy green leaves, adds a beautiful touch to any landscape. The ornamental orange fruit that emerges in autumn is highly valued by the Maori for its unique qualities and significance. This tree is particularly suitable for creating impressive coastal hedging or serving as a striking specimen tree in gardens, though it is important to note that it is intolerant of frost and cold temperatures. Additionally, be aware that the kernels of the fruit are poisonous and should be handled with caution!

Natural habitat:

Common in mainly coastal situations, often a major component of coastal forest, tho rarely dominant. Occasionally found inland, and then often in association with Maori cultural deposits.

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought, Salt, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Exact indigenous distribution is un-certain due to its widespread historic planting by Maori.

Common from Raoul and the Three Kings Islands, throughout the North and South Islands to Banks Peninsula and Okarito. Also on the Chatham Islands. Most botanists accept it as native only to the northern half of the North Island. It is widely naturalised in lowland forests, from gardens and ‘conservation plantings’ well south of its presumed natural range.

Height: 15m

Flowering:

August – November with a cream or green coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

January – April with dense sprays of fleshy orange drupes.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & forests.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. Cuttings are very difficult to strike. Frost-tender and cold-sensitive when young.

** The seeds are perishable and cannot be stored. After collection & cleaning the seed should be sown immediately.