Botanical name:

Pseudowintera colorata

Common name(s):

Horopito, Pepper tree

About:

A small to medium-sized shrub featuring striking green blotched leaves adorned with vivid red accents, which emerge as brilliant new shoots during the vibrant spring season. This delightful plant is highly regarded for its visually appealing, aromatic foliage that adds character to any garden. Its common name is derived from the distinctive, spicy, and pungent peppery flavour that the leaves possess, making it a unique addition to culinary dishes. Furthermore, it can be easily shaped and maintained, making it an excellent choice for a decorative hedge that offers both beauty and function.

Natural habitat:

Coastal, lowland, or montane forest margins and shrub-land.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Islands.

Height: 2.5m

Flowering: 

November-March  with a yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – June

Uses:

Hedging & Forests.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

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