Botanical name:

Nestegis lanceolata

Common name(s):

White maire

About:

White maire is a small tree typically found in lowland forest ecosystems, often growing in the understory alongside other native species such as kahikatea, matai, pukatea, tawa, and titoki. The trees produce delicate flowers that bloom in February, attracting various pollinators, while the fruit matures and becomes ripe the following year. Each fruit contains a single hard stone, which is encased within a vibrant yellow exterior, showcasing nature's unique design.

Natural habitat:

Widespread in coastal to montane forest. Commonly found on steep hill slopes and ridge lines but also can be locally common in riparian forest. As a rule white maire tends to avoid frost-prone habitats and sites that frequently flood.

Growing environment:

Drought & Shade tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Widespread and common in the North Island except in the southern part of its range (Horowhenua, southern Wairarapa and Wellington areas). Very uncommon in the South Island where it is locally present in the Marlborough Sounds, reaching its southern limit along the Tuamarina River.

Height: 15m

Flowering: 

Spring with a green coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – February with a red or yellow fruit containing a single seed.

Uses:

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

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

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