Botanical name:

Melicytus novae-zelandia

Common name(s):

Coastal mahoe

About:

This species is very similar to M. chathamicus. It is primarily found in the northern regions, specifically on the Three Kings Islands and extending from North Cape down to Bay of Plenty, predominantly on various coastal islands. The plant features oval-shaped leaves with shallow, blunt-toothed edges that are quite distinctive. Additionally, the small greenish-white flowers bloom in the spring season, adding to its charm. Typically, it grows to a height of about 2 to 3 m and is considered an excellent choice for cultivation in exposed coastal sites due to its resilience.

Natural habitat:

Exposed coastal areas.

Growing environment:

Sun, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and Three Kings Islands and from the Bay of Plenty North including the outer islands.

Height: 3m

Flowering: 

August  – September with a yellowish coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

August – October with a purple – white fruit.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bees food, Riparian plantings.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh and semi-hardwood cuttings.

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