Botanical name:

Pittosporum eugenioides 

Common name(s):

Tarata, lemonwood

About:

The tree is characterised by its light green wavy-edge oval leaves, which beautifully contrast with a prominent pale green central vein. In addition to its striking foliage, the tree produces dense sprays of small, vibrant yellow flowers that add a lively touch to its appearance, followed by the development of small dry fruits. As the season progresses, the leaf buds are noticeably covered in dark-edged scales, enhancing their texture. The fruit itself is pointed and measures approximately 5-6mm in length, and when it splits open, it reveals a delicate papery layer that conceals shiny black sticky seeds within.

Natural habitat:

Common tree of regenerating and mature forest in coastal to montane situations.

Growing environment:

Frost, Wind tolerant, Free draining.

Endemic distribution:

Common & widespread in the North and South Islands.

Height: 12m

Flowering: October - December with a yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting: October - January

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Hedging, Riparian plantings & Pioneer Plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed. Also can be grown from semi-hardwood cuttings.

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