Bird Feeding Trees
- Corynocarpus laevigatus – Karaka is a dense, evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its lush, glossy green foliage creates a bold, tropical impression—perfect for adding instant visual appeal to gardens and landscapes. Flowering in late winter to spring, it produces delicate green-cream clusters. By summer, vibrant orange berry-like fruits emerge, attracting native kererū, who help disperse the seeds. Exceptionally hardy, Karaka withstands strong winds, coastal exposure, and drought. However, it dislikes waterlogged soils. Ideal as a privacy screen or shade canopy, this tree grows to approximately 15–20 metres tall and 8 metres wide.
- Corynocarpus laevigatus ‘Minima’ – Karaka, is a compact male form of the New Zealand native Karaka tree. Its glossy green leaves resemble the standard Karaka but are noticeably smaller, creating a lush, tropical look. As a male cultivar, it rarely produces fruit or seed. This makes it a tidy choice for urban gardens or formal landscapes where minimal litter is preferred. Thriving in full sun, it prefers moist, well-drained soil. It also tolerates coastal conditions and wind, making it highly versatile. With its dense branching and slower growth, ‘Minima’ is ideal for hedging, screening, or shaping into a privacy barrier.Interestingly, the species name laevigatus means “smooth” in Latin, referring to the texture of its foliage. In eight years, it typically reaches around 4.5 x 3.0 metres.
- Kahikatea, also known as White Pine, stands as New Zealand’s tallest native tree and commands attention with its strong, upright form. As a coniferous species, it grows relatively fast and develops a bold presence in wetland and lowland environments. In its juvenile stage, Kahikatea features drooping, needle-like foliage with a distinctive brown-bronze hue. Over time, this matures into a mid-green canopy as the tree gains height and structure. For many years, it maintains a columnar to oval shape before eventually opening into a broad, stately crown. Typically found growing in groups across swampy areas throughout New Zealand, Kahikatea thrives in damp soils and performs well in restoration projects and native plantings. Within 10 years, it can reach approximately 10 metres in height and 5 metres in width. Given time, it matures into a towering specimen—often exceeding 40 metres. This iconic tree is not only a symbol of strength and endurance but also plays a vital role in New Zealand’s ecological heritage.
- 10 x 5 in 10 Years, 40+ at maturity
- Tall 10+m
- Fast
- Tree
- Columnar-Oval
- Deciduous
- New Zealand/div>
- Dacrydium Cupressinum, Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, Olea El Greco, Knightia Excelsa, Acer Bowall, Poplar crow’s nest, Quercus robur fastigiata, Carpinus Betulus fastigiata
- Green
- Damp-Wet Tolerant
- Inhabits mostly lowland forests between 0–600 m in North and South Islands
- Statement tree, Bird feeding
- Dacrydium cupressinum – Rimu, is and evergreen conifer native to New Zealand and is one of the most widespread and easily recognised forest trees in both the North and South Islands. With a slow to moderate growth rate, it develops into a commanding presence over time—ideal for both natural landscapes and structured garden settings. In its juvenile form, Rimu presents as a striking, pyramidal specimen with gracefully weeping branches and small, awl-shaped dark green leaves. As the tree matures, it broadens into a more upright form, shedding bark in thick, scaly plates that add rugged texture to its trunk. Thriving in cool, moist conditions, Rimu is well-suited to temperate gardens and native restoration projects. Within 10 years, it typically reaches around 10 metres in height and 4 metres in width. Given time, it can attain a majestic size of up to 25 metres tall and 9 metres wide. Whether planted for its ornamental value or ecological significance, Rimu stands as a bold and enduring symbol of New Zealand’s forest heritage.
- Didymocheton spectabilis – Kohekohe is a striking evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Found naturally in coastal forests across the North Island, it grows quickly and forms a handsome canopy, ideal for coastal gardens. Its large, tropical-looking leaves can reach up to 40cm long. From March to June, elegant, small waxy white flowers bloom directly from the trunk and branches, followed by fruit that enhances its exotic appeal. Kohekohe prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun. It tolerates coastal conditions but dislikes waterlogged areas. In ten years, it typically reaches around 10 x 4 metres. At full maturity, it can grow up to 15 metres tall. Formerly known as Dysoxylum spectabilis, it remains a standout choice for native planting schemes.
- Dodonaea viscosa also known as Ake Ake, is a small, spreading evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its long, leathery light green leaves bring a fresh, vibrant look to any landscape. In summer, it produces unusual yellow-green papery flower clusters, adding seasonal interest. Once established, Ake Ake is highly tolerant of dry, sandy or rocky soils, salt spray, wind, and drought, but prefers a moist well drained soil. This hardy tree thrives in full sun and is ideal for exposed or coastal sites. It works beautifully as a windbreak or privacy screen in tough conditions. To maintain a dense, bushy form, regular trimming is recommended. Typically, it grows to around 3.5 metres high and 2 metres wide.
- Dodonaea viscosa ‘Purpurea’ – Purple Akeake is a tough, upright native New Zealand tree with bold, glossy purple-red foliage that deepens in colour during the cooler months. In summer, it puts on a show with unusual light red to purple papery flower clusters that add a rugged splash of contrast. Over time, Purple Akeake spreads out, making it a good choice for privacy screening or adding colour into compact garden spaces. It handles a wide range of soil types, salt spray, wind, and drought once established—but thrives best in moist, well-drained soil. Trim regularly to maintain a dense, bushy form. The name viscosa refers to the sticky texture of its seeds. Grows to approximately 3.5m high x 2.0m wide.
- Feijoa sellowiana – Feijoa (Acca sellowiana) is a smaller, fast-growing, evergreen tree with a compact, rounded shape. Its stout, leathery green leaves give it a lush, tropical appearance, ideal for adding texture to garden spaces. Native to South America, Feijoa is among the hardiest subtropical fruit trees. It tolerates light frost and produces abundant fruit from April to June, which drops easily when ripe. Sellowiana is the parent species of many popular grafted and cutting-grown cultivars. It thrives in full sun and prefers a moist, well-drained soil. Typically reaching around 4 x 3 metres tall they are easily trimmed to shape and make an excellent hedge, screen or stand-alone fruit tree. Ideal for a smaller garden.
- Fig ‘Brown Turkey’ (Ficus carica) This compact shrub or small tree features gnarled, twisted branches and bold, tropical-style leaves. Ideally, it should be planted in a sunny, sheltered, location. In addition, it thrives when provided with abundant moisture. Notably, ‘Brown Turkey’ is a well-known hardy selection that produces generous crops of green figs with a distinctive brown tinge and white to amber flesh. Because of its size, it’s excellent for small gardens and furthermore, it tolerates coastal conditions with ease. Although it can grow up to 5 x 5 metres, it’s easy to trim to your preferred size and shape. Therefore, it’s a versatile choice for many garden styles. Be quick to harvest the fruit before the birds do—typically, the season runs from February to April. Finally, this variety is proudly recognised as a Heritage Tree.
- Fig ‘French Sugar (Ficus carica) This compact shrub or small tree features gnarled, twisted branches and bold, tropical-style leaves. Ideally, it should be planted in a sunny, sheltered, location. In addition, it thrives when provided with abundant moisture. Notably, ‘Mrs Williams’ is a well-known hardy selection that produces generous crops of high-quality, large figs. Unlike many other varieties, it ripens earlier in the season, making it a popular choice among gardeners. The fruit is dark green in colour with succulent pale pink flesh. As a heavy cropper, this variety consistently produces abundant yields. As a result, the figs are sweet, juicy, and perfect for both fresh eating and preserving. Typically, the harvest period runs from February to April but be quick to harvest the fruit before the birds do. Because of its compact size, this fig is ideal for small gardens. Moreover, it tolerates coastal conditions with ease, adding to its versatility. Although it can grow up to 5 x 5 metres, it’s easy to trim to your preferred size and shape. Therefore, it’s a versatile choice for many garden styles.
- Fig ‘Mrs Williams’ (Ficus carica) This deciduous, compact shrub or small tree features gnarled, twisted branches and bold, tropical-style leaves. Ideally, it should be planted in a sunny, sheltered, location. In addition, it thrives when provided with abundant moisture. Notably, ‘Mrs Williams’ is a well-known hardy selection that produces generous crops of high-quality, large figs. Unlike many other varieties, it ripens earlier in the season, making it a popular choice among gardeners. The fruit is dark in colour—sometimes even purple—with flesh ranging from light amber to rich red. As a result, the figs are sweet, juicy, and perfect for fresh eating or preserving. Typically, the harvest period runs from February to April, but be quick to harvest the fruit before the birds do. Because of its compact size, this fig is ideal for small gardens. Moreover, it tolerates coastal conditions with ease, adding to its versatility. Although it can grow up to 5 x 5 metres, it’s easy to trim to your preferred size and shape. Therefore, it’s a versatile choice for many garden styles
- A bold and fast-growing native of New Zealand, Griselinia littoralis 'Broadway Mint' or Kapuka, is a robust shrub or small tree—an impressive variety of littoralis. Its light mint-green leaves are glossy with a wavy edge that adds texture and strength to any landscape. Moreover, this versatile plant is easily clipped into a tidy smaller garden hedge or, if preferred, allowed to grow into a larger, structured screen. Not only does it thrive in coastal conditions, but it also stands up well to strong winds and frosts—making it a reliable choice for exposed sites. For best results, ensure good drainage. Ultimately, it reaches approximately 3.0 x 3.0 meters in size, offering both presence and practicality. Interestingly, the Latin word littoralis translates to “growing by the sea,” a fitting nod to its coastal resilience.
- Griselinia lucida, also known as Akapuka, is a robust New Zealand native. Whether grown as a shrub or shaped into a small, rounded tree, it features thick, glossy lime-green foliage with a bold, tropical feel. Thanks to its compact form, it’s easily trimmed into a neat hedge or left to fill out as a natural screen. Whether facing wind or salt spray, this plant stands strong. It thrives in both full sun and shaded areas, making it a reliable option for coastal gardens or sheltered urban spaces. However, for best results, ensure good drainage. Reaching around 3 metres tall by 2 metres wide, it’s perfect for compact areas needing bold structure and lush greenery.
- Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is a striking evergreen native to New Zealand. It forms a slender, erect, and tapering tree with long, green serrated leaves that adds texture and structure to the landscape. In spring, it produces very unusual tubular reddish-brown flowers with yellow tips that are highly attractive to native birds, adding both ecological value and seasonal interest. Because of its upright habit, Rewarewa is ideal for smaller gardens and narrow spaces. Additionally, it is well-suited to coastal gardens. While it tolerates clay soils, overly wet conditions should be avoided. Likewise, phosphate-based fertilizers are not recommended. Typically, it grows to approximately 7 x 3 metres, making it a manageable yet elegant choice for urban and rural settings alike. Interestingly, the Latin name Excelsa refers to its tall, strong stature.
- 7 x 3m
- Medium 5-10m
- Moderate
- Tree
- Columnar
- Evergreen
- New Zealand
- Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, Olea El Greco, Dacrydium Cupressinum, Acer Bowall, Poplar crow’s nest, Quercus robur fastigiata, Carpinus Betulus fastigiata, Dacrycarpus Dacrydoidies, Cupressus totem
- Green
- Reddish Brown
- No
- Prefers Moist well drained, Will tolerate clay, Not Wet
- Coastal, Wind
- Avenue, Small Garden, Bird Feeding, Narrow Spaces
- Kunzea ericoides, commonly known as Kanuka, is a tall, fast-growing New Zealand native tree with a broad, spreading crown. Because of its vigorous growth, it’s widely recognised and valued in native landscapes. Although its tiny needle-like leaves resemble Manuka, they feel noticeably softer to the touch. During summer, small white flowers blanket the tree, creating an almost snow-like effect that’s highly attractive to bees. Compared to Manuka, Kanuka grows larger and produces smaller seeds. Once established, it withstands windy coastal conditions and thrives in dry soils. Furthermore, it tolerates clay, though overly wet areas should be avoided. Extremely hardy, Kanuka reaches approximately 6 x 4 metres. As a result, it’s used extensively as a cover tree to protect newly planted native revegetation, offering both shelter and ecological support.
- Leptospermum scoparium – Manuka or Tea Tree is a compact, native New Zealand tree known for its resilience and beauty. It’s ideal for gardens seeking year-round interest and biodiversity. Dark green foliage is narrow, lance-shaped and sharply pointed. From late autumn to early spring, the tree bursts into single or double flowers, offering a vibrant display and nectar for bees. These are followed by its berries, which resemble tiny hot cross buns. Manuka is also prized for its high-quality honey, making it a valuable addition to any landscape. Hardy and adaptable, Manuka tolerates clay soils and thrives in windy coastal areas or dry conditions once established. Avoid overly wet soils for best results. It typically grows to around 5 meters tall and 3 meters wide.
- Malus ‘Jack Humm’ - Crab-apple is a strong growing smaller deciduous tree. Bearing masses of white tinged pink flowers from red buds in spring. In autumn clusters of large bright crimson fruit flushed orange and yellow. One of the best crab-apples for production of fruit suited for jelly’s and jams. Ideal for smaller gardens.
- Malus floribunda, commonly known as the Japanese Crabapple, is a moderately fast-growing ornamental tree with its origins in Japan. With long, gracefully arching branches and small, dark green leaves, it brings elegance and seasonal interest to any garden. As spring arrives, the entire tree bursts into colour with bright pink buds that open into a profusion of small white to pale pink flowers. Shortly after flowering, yellow fruits flushed with red begin to appear. These fruits are not only edible but also attract birds, adding life and movement to the garden. Interestingly, the Latin name floribunda means “flowering freely” or “many-flowering,” perfectly describing this tree’s abundant spring display. Because of its compact size, reaching approximately 3 x 2.5 metres, it’s an excellent choice for smaller gardens, courtyards, or decorative planting schemes. Furthermore, it responds well to pruning, making it easy to maintain a neat and tidy shape.
- Melia azedarach – Indian Bead Tree is a round-headed deciduous tree with glossy, compound green leaves. In spring, it produces scented pale lilac flowers. Later, during autumn, loose clusters of smooth oval berries appear, turning from green to bright yellow in winter. Not to be eaten. Tthe tree adapts well to a wide range of soils, provided they are well drained to prevent root rot. It grows best in full sun. Moreover, pruning helps open the crown and encourages the development of well-spaced limbs. Thanks to its dense leaf covering, it is ideal as a lawn specimen or shade tree. This hardy tree withstands frost, wind, and occasional dry periods. Finally, it reaches approximately 7m tall and 5m wide, making it a striking addition to any landscape.
- An abundant small tree of coastal, lowland, and lower mountain forests throughout the country. Coarsely toothed light green leaves with clusters of tiny greenish-yellow flowers followed by violet or dark blue berries loved by native birds. Whiteywood name comes from the unusual white blotches on the trunk and stems. Protect from strong winds.
