Botanical name:

Kunzea robusta

Common name(s):

Kanuka, rawirinui

About:

A widespread and common tree found throughout both the North and South Islands. The bark of this tree typically detaches in long, leathery strips, adding to its distinct appearance. The branches are adorned with masses of vibrant green leaves that feature clusters of small, delicate white flowers, creating a beautiful display. The branchlets are usually copiously covered in silky, appressed hairs, which contribute to the overall texture of the tree. The leaves are variable in size, reaching lengths of up to 28 mm, and they possess a soft texture that is pleasing to the touch. The flowers are arranged in lovely white clusters, each exhibiting a striking red centre that adds a pop of colour to the tree's foliage.

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 (up to 900 m).

Growing environment:

Sun, Drought & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand: North and South Islands.

Height: 30m

Flowering:

August – June with a red/pink or white coloured flowers.

Fruiting:

July – May with a small dry capsule 2.2–4.6 × 3.2–5.3 mm.

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. Can be grown (with great difficulty) from semi-hardwood cuttings.

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