Botanical name:

Dracophyllum longifolium

Common name(s):

Inanga, inaka

Plant facts:

This particular species is recognised as the most widespread of the grass trees, with its presence noted from East Cape extending southward across diverse environments, including areas of scrub and forest, ranging from coastal regions to subalpine zones. In natural settings, it has the potential to grow impressively tall, reaching heights of up to 12 m. However, in a cultivated garden environment, it is more likely to attain a more modest height of between 1 to 2.5 m. The leaves of this species are notably narrow, measuring between 10 to 25 cm in length, and are characterised by their stiff, leathery texture, which usually results in them being closely clustered at the ends of the branches. For optimal growth, it is essential to provide it with good quality soil, whether placed in direct sunlight or in shaded areas. Once established, this resilient plant demonstrates a remarkable ability to endure drier conditions.

Natural habitat:

Widespread from sea level to the alpine zone growing in forest, woodland, shrub-land and bogs on mountain and hill slopes, on coastal cliffs and on bluffs.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wetland, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South, Stewart, Auckland, and Campbell Islands

Height: 12m

Flowering:

October –March with a red/pink or white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

Throughout the year.

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Difficult - should not be removed from the wild. Can be grown from seed.

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