Botanical name:

Jovellana sinclairii

Common name(s):

New Zealand calceolaria

About:

A delicate subshrub that reaches approximately 40 cm in height, featuring light green, oval-lobed leaves. During summer, it produces clusters of small, white, bell-shaped flowers that have purple spots within. This plant is commonly found along forest edges and stream banks throughout the North Island, from Hicks Bay to the south. It thrives in sheltered, shady, or semi-shady locations with rich, well-drained soil. In humid regions, it is susceptible to Phytophthora, so it is advisable to provide a cool root environment and some exposure to prevailing winds. To maintain a compact form, the plant should be pruned regularly throughout the year, with a more substantial pruning recommended in late autumn or early winter. It is sensitive to frost.

Natural habitat:

Shaded coastal and lower montane stream-sides, cliff seepages, or on damp sparsely vegetated ground on forest margins.

Growing environment:

Shade, Wetland, Wind & Coastal tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North Island. Locally found from near Hicks Bay southwards.

Height: 40cm

Flowering: 

October – February with a white, yellow coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

November - March

Uses:

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

How to grow:
Easily grown from seed and cuttings.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. Sow seed direct & keep moist until germination is complete.