Botanical name:

Pittosporum ellipticum

Common name(s):

About:

A rather rare tree characterised by its open spreading habit, which can often be observed in the lowland forests of the upper North Island. This impressive tree typically grows to a height of about 8m, and its main distinguishing feature is the striking golden brown tomentum that elegantly covers the branches, young leaves, and the undersides of the dark green older leaves. It is known to be a hardy tree, thriving best in conditions of full sun exposure.

Natural habitat:

Most usually associated with kauri (Agathis australis) forest, often on ridge lines, slips scars or in secondary regrowth within cut over kauri forest. Outside this forest type it is often found in association with tanekaha (Phyllocladus trichomanoides), towai (Pterophylla silvicola) or kamahi (Pterophylla racemosa). In all situations it prefers relatively open vegetation, where it typically forms apparently evenly-aged cohorts.

Growing environment:

Sun, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s upper North Island from Te Paki to Mt Pirongia in the west and about the Karangahake and Waioeka Gorges in the East.

Height: 8m

Flowering:

July - October with brown to reddish pink coloured flowers

Fruiting:

August - January though fruit is long persistent and may be seen year round.

Uses:

Bird attractant, Bee food, Forests & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Difficult. Seed may take up to five years to germinate and germination is often poor. Best grown from semi-hardwood cuttings, though even these can be hard to strike. Although an attractive small tree it is often hard to maintain in cultivation, and is prone to sudden collapse in times of stress. This is a shame because the flowered forms are very beautiful.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed up and even out germination time