Botanical name:

Fuscospora solandri (Nothofagus solandri) 

Common name(s):

Black beech, tawhairauriki

About:

A forest canopy tree found in dry, lowland areas features a striking dark sooty trunk that supports small leathery leaves, which are intricately arranged along the twig. These leaves are pale underneath and exhibit slightly incurved margins, contributing to their unique appearance. Measuring between 10 and 15 mm in length, the leaves possess a rounded tip that adds to their aesthetic appeal. While the flowers and fruits of this tree are often inconspicuous, they, along with new leaf growth, have the ability to change the overall colour of the tree, creating a dynamic visual landscape in its environment.

Natural habitat: 

Lowland to montane forest. At times the canopy dominant and forming its own distinctive forest type.

Growing environment:

Frost & wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North & South Islands. Very rare north of the Central Volcanic Plateau and East Cape. Little Barrier Island appears to be the current northern limit.

Height: 25m

Flowering: 

September – December with a red/pink coloured flower/s.

Fruiting:

November - April

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Forests

How to grow:

Easy from fresh seed, Cuttings are very difficult to strike. Young plants are very quick growing but do best in cool climates.

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