Botanical name:

Gaultheria oppositifolia 

Common name(s):

Alpine waxberry, Snowberry, Niniwa, Waiuatua, Kama 

About:

A well-branched shrub that can grow up to about 2 m in height. The specific name refers to the characteristic opposite placement of the leaves along the branches, which is a notable feature of this plant. The leaves themselves are dark green, leathery in texture, and oblong in shape, typically reaching lengths of about 6 cm. During the summer months, the shrub produces panicles of small white flowers, adding a touch of beauty to its overall appearance. This species is commonly found in hilly to montane areas throughout the North Island. After the flowering period, it should be pruned appropriately to maintain a tidy and bushy shape.

Natural habitat: 

Mostly rocky Montaigne areas in the North Island, often observed beneath manuka scrub.

Growing environment:

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

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North Islands.

Height: 2m

Flowering: 

Late summer with a White coloured flowers   

Fruiting:

Autumn with a red or white coloured fruit.

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian Plantings.

How to grow:

Grown from fresh seed or cuttings. 

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