Botanical name:

Neomyrtus pedunculata

Common name(s):

Rōhutu

About:

A shrub or small tree, typically ranging from 3 to 8m in height, features branches that have a rather tangled appearance. This species is widely distributed across New Zealand, thriving in scrub and forest environments, often found at elevations up to 1200m. The foliage consists of small, round leaves, which are characterised by a leathery texture; the undersides of these leaves are paler and marked with distinctive glands. During the summer months, the plant produces tiny white flowers that contribute to its modest seasonal display. Following the flowering period, the plant bears orange-red berries that add a splash of colour to its overall appearance. While the species can grow well in full sun or semi-shaded areas, it is known for its slow growth rate, requiring patience for optimal development.

Natural habitat:

Coastal to montane forest and shrub land. Often a conspicuous component of the under storey of lowland Podocarp riparian forest but also an frequent component of grey scrub in some parts of the South Island. Unless flowering or fruiting Neomyrtus is often overlooked or mistaken for the superficially similar Lophomyrtus obcordata with which it often grows.

Growing environment:

Drought, Shade, Wind, Coastal & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Islands from near Kaitaia (Mangamuka) south but generally scarce in Northland and Auckland.

Height: 8m

Flowering: 

November – April with a creamy white coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

February - June

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. Can also be grown from semi-hardwood and hardwood cuttingsthough the strike rate can be variable. Neomyrtus is an attractive and remarkably hard shrub that does well when planted in a semi-shaded site, in a free draining, moist, fertile soil enriched with leaf litter and compost. It is however, rather drought tolerant and can (once established) be grown in high light situations. It is surprisingly drought tolerant. On account of its conspicuous flowers and colourful berries it is a very attractive plant that is well worth growing. Neomyrtus is, however, rarely available from garden centres.

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