Botanical name:

Didymocheton spectabilis (Dysoxylum spectabile)

Common name(s):

Kohekohe, New Zealand Mahogany

About:

Kohekohe is a medium-sized tree that can grow to an impressive trunk diameter of up to 1m. This species can be commonly found in lowland and coastal forests across most of the North Island as well as the northern region of the South Island. The tree showcases large, glossy pinnate leaves that contribute to its striking appearance. Additionally, the beautiful white flowers of the kohekohe are an important and much-favoured source of floral nectar for local bird species such as Tui and Bellbird. These white flowers typically appear during the months of May and June, and the fruit will become ripe approximately a year or so after the flowering period concludes.

Natural habitat:

Common and sometimes dominant or co-dominant tree of coastal to lowland forest.

Growing environment:

Shade, Salt, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. In the South Island not extending much beyond the Marlborough Sounds, reaching a southern limit near the Hurunui River.

Height: 15m

Flowering:

March – June with a coloured green or white flower/s

Fruiting:

April – August with an orange fruit covered by a husk.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Forests.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

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