Botanical name:

Raukaua edgerleyi

Common name(s):

Raukawa

About:

Raukawa is a species that can be found throughout various regions in New Zealand. It typically grows into a small tree that reaches heights of around 4 to 10m and features distinct juvenile foliage, which is often trifoliolate and characterised by long, narrow, deeply lobed leaflets. The adult leaves are single, oblong in shape, and exhibit a very glossy sheen on the upper side while appearing pale underneath. This plant primarily thrives in dry conditions and demonstrates optimal growth when placed in semi-shaded environments.

Natural habitat:

Lowland to montane forest from near sea level to 900m.

Growing environment:

Frost, Shade, Wind & Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Island from Kaitaia southwards although scattered and infrequent.

Height: 10m

Flowering: 

September - December with a green coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

October to March but some fruit may be present throughout the year

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Shelter belts

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed and semi-hardwood cuttings. Can be tricky to maintain. Likes damp soils and a semi-shaded situation, but in cooler and wetter climates it will grow in exposed situations.

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