Botanical name:

Kunzea ericoides

Common name(s):

kānuka

About:

A common tree found exclusively in the northern region of New Zealand's South Island is notable for its distinctive loose papery bark, which bears a resemblance to that of the Manuka tree, though it is considerably larger in size. Its branches typically have a graceful, pendent appearance at the ends, which creates a beautiful effect as they droop. This tree is adorned with an abundance of fine, needle-like bright green leaves that contribute to its lush look. In addition to its foliage, it produces lovely clusters of small white flowers that enhance its overall charm and appeal during the blooming season.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to lowland shrub land, regenerating forest and forest margins, also present in montane forest, ultramafic shrub land and very occasionally present in subalpine shrub land.

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s Northern South Island only - north of the Buller and Wairau Rivers. Most common in North West Nelson from sea level to 600m.

Height: 15m

Flowering: October-February with a white coloured flower/s

Fruiting: November-March

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings, Pioneer Plantings  & firewood.

How to grow:

Very easy from fresh seed. Seed must be sown fresh, even if left for a few weeks before sowing viability can drop, especially if seed is allowed to dry out. Very difficult from cuttings, though soft wood water shoots give the best results.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment.