New Zealand Native Trees
- 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.
- Alectryon excelsum - Titoki or the New Zealand Oak is one of Aotearoa’s most beloved native trees, prized for its easy care and striking appearance. Its lush, glossy green pinnate leaves with finely serrated edges create a vibrant, tropical feel in any garden. In early summer, Titoki produces unusual sprays of rusty, woolly, petal-less flowers that have a distinctive reddish-brown colour. These are followed by clusters of small, bright red fruit that are attractive to native birds, adding life to your outdoor space. Best suited to sheltered spots with full sun, Titoki thrives in rich, free-draining soil. With its elegant form and attractive foliage, it makes an excellent specimen tree. Mature size: approximately 7 metres tall by 3 metres wide
- 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.
- Cordyline australis, commonly known as the Cabbage Tree or Ti Kouka, is a striking native tree found throughout New Zealand. With its upright trunk and clusters of long, drooping leaves—often reaching up to 1 metre—it resembles a palm and adds architectural flair to any landscape. In late spring, this hardy tree bursts into large heads of creamy white, scented flowers. These blooms are rich in nectar, attracting bees and other pollinators. As summer progresses, the tree produces fruit that draws native birds from January to April, enhancing biodiversity in your garden or property. Cordyline australis thrives in a wide range of environments—from swampy wetlands to dry, windy hill slopes. It’s commonly seen across farmland, open spaces, and scrubland in both the North and South Islands. While it tolerates clay soils, it performs best in free-draining ground and is resistant to coastal winds and harsh conditions. The name “Cabbage Tree” arose from early European settlers who, like Maori, used the tender heart-shoots as a vegetable. Its Latin name, australis, fittingly means “southern” or “of the south,” reflecting its deep roots in New Zealand’s southern landscapes. This iconic tree typically grows to around 6 metres tall and 2 metres wide, making it a bold and resilient choice for coastal gardens, rural properties, and native restoration projects.
- 6 x 2m
- Medium 5-10m
- Slow - Moderate
- Palm
- Upright
- New Zealand/div>
- Nikau Palms
- Green
- White
- Fragrant
- Dry once established, Damp-Wet, Clay
- Coastal, Windy, Hardy
- Bird Feeding, Small Gardens
- 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
- Pittosporum crassifolium - Karo is a compact, evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its bushy form and leathery dark green leaves, felted underneath, give it a lush appearance. In spring, it produces sweetly scented purple flowers, especially fragrant during calm mornings or evenings. After flowering, it forms seed capsules that attract and feed native and other small birds. Karo is easily trimmed into a tidy hedge or left to grow as a hardy screen, either trimmed or natural. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions, coastal exposure, and strong winds—making it ideal for challenging sites. This very hardy tree typically grows to around 6 metres tall and 4 metres wide, making it ideal for gardens needing structure and resilience.
- 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.
- Corokia virgata ‘Geenty’s Green’ is a compact, bushy shrub native to New Zealand, celebrated for its vibrant green foliage and star-shaped yellow flowers that bloom in early summer. These are followed by small dark red berries that attract native birds, adding seasonal interest and biodiversity to your garden. Ideal for hedging, this versatile plant trims neatly into a tidy shape, ideal for low hedges or borders in larger or smaller gardens. It can be left to grow naturally into a larger screen as well. Once established, it thrives in exposed coastal, windy or dry conditions, making it a resilient choice for challenging sites. Mature plants reach approximately 2 metres high by 1.2 metres wide. Named in honour of New Zealand plantsman and Corokia enthusiast Mike Geenty, this cultivar has the Latin virgata, meaning “twiggy”—a reference to its fine branching structure.
- Native to New Zealand, Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kowhai) is a semi-deciduous tree known for its spreading form and vibrant spring display. It features small, pinnate green leaflets that create a soft, open canopy. Unlike other Kowhai species, Coastal Kowhai does not have a divaricating (Zig-Zag) juvenile stage. Instead, it grows with a naturally elegant structure from an early age, making it easy to identify. In spring, the tree bursts into golden-yellow, tubular flowers arranged in pendulous racemes. These 45mm blooms appear en masse and attract Tui and other nectar-loving birds, adding life and movement to any garden. Coastal Kowhai thrives in moist, well-drained soil and thrives in coastal forest environments. It’s often found on banks overlooking estuarine rivers or sheltered inlets, where it enjoys mild conditions and good drainage. Previously classified as Sophora microphylla, this species is now recognized for its distinct traits. It makes a stunning feature tree in small gardens and typically grows to around 6 metres tall and 4 metres wide.
- Sophora microphylla, commonly known as small-leaved kōwhai, is a graceful, semi-open, semi-deciduous native tree of New Zealand. Its delicate form makes it ideal for smaller gardens, while its vibrant seasonal displays add striking visual interest throughout the year. During its juvenile stage, this species features distinctive zig-zag (divaricating) branches. Over time, these develop into arching, spreading limbs adorned with small, pinnate green leaflets 🌿 that soften its overall form. In spring, golden-yellow tubular flowers bloom in pendulous racemes. These 45mm blossoms appear en masse, attracting Tui and other nectar-loving birds with their rich nectar. This Kowhai thrives in well-drained soil and sheltered spots. It grows happily in full sun or partial shade, making it versatile for various garden settings. Prefers free draining moist soils and is not suitable for waterlogged or extremely dry sites. With proper care, it becomes a stunning feature tree that reaches approximately 5 metres tall and 2.5 metres wide.
- Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as NZ Kowhai, is a graceful, arching evergreen native tree. It grows slightly larger than its close relative, Sophora microphylla, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more prominent garden feature. Notably, its dark green pinnate leaves are larger—ranging from 8 to 16 cm—and unlike microphylla, it does not exhibit tangled juvenile growth. In early spring, this tree bursts into golden yellow blooms arranged in racemes of 4 to 10 flowers, which appear earlier than those of microphylla. As a result, it creates a more open and airy visual impact. When in full bloom, NZ Kowhai is truly spectacular. Moreover, it attracts Tui and other nectar-loving birds, adding vibrant life to your garden. Ideally, it prefers a sheltered position with moist, well-drained soil. Ultimately, it grows to approximately 7 x 4 meters, making it a perfect feature tree for smaller gardens.
- 7 x 4m
- Medium 5-10m
- Moderate
- Tree
- Spreading
- Deciduous
- New Zealand/div>
- Sophora Microphylla, Sophora Chathamica
- Green
- Yellow
- No
- Moist well drained
- Prefers a sheltered position
- Small garden, Shade Tree, Feature, Bird Feeding
- Plagianthus regius – Manatu or Ribbonwood is one of the few deciduous trees native to New Zealand. It begins life as a slender, columnar tree with tangled branches and small, green, toothed leaves. As it matures, the tree develops a rounded crown and its leaves enlarge, resembling those of a birch. Meanwhile, its bark becomes stringy and peels into ribbon-like strips—though peeling is harmful and should be avoided. In spring, masses of small yellow-green flowers blanket the tree, creating a soft glow that attracts nectar-feeding birds. This seasonal display adds charm and biodiversity to any garden. Ribbonwood thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Growing to approximately 6 x 3 meters, it suits narrow spaces beautifully and adds vertical interest to compact landscapes. Endemic to New Zealand, this unique tree offers both ecological value and ornamental appeal..
- Beilschmiedia taraire, commonly known as Taraire, is a striking New Zealand native tree that brings a bold, tropical presence to any landscape. With its stately, straight trunk and smooth brown bark, Taraire stands tall and proud offering both structure and elegance. Its broad, dark-green leaves feature distinctive depressed veins, giving the tree a lush, exotic appearance. In spring, very small orange flowers emerge in delicate clusters, followed by eye-catching plum purple fruit in autumn. These fruits are especially loved by the native Kererū pigeon, adding ecological value to its ornamental charm. Moreover, Taraire thrives in rich, deeply worked, well-drained soil and prefers a sheltered, temperate environment. Over time, it develops into a large canopy tree, reaching approximately 7 x 4 metres within 10 years. Under ideal conditions, it can eventually attain a mature height of 15–20 metres—making it a true forest giant. Whether planted as a legacy specimen or to enhance native biodiversity, Taraire offers both beauty and significance in New Zealand gardens
- Agathis australis, commonly known as the New Zealand Kauri, is a slow-growing native tree admired for its longevity and architectural beauty. Remarkably, it retains its juvenile, pyramidal form for up to 50 years, making it a unique presence in any landscape. Its narrow, leathery leaves display a striking bronze-green hue, while the smooth grey bark gradually becomes scaly as the tree matures. Over time, adult specimens develop into stately, straight-trunked trees with a rounded crown—adding grandeur and structure to larger garden spaces. Ideally, this species thrives in rich, fertile, moist, and well-draining soil. However, it is intolerant of persistent wetness and does not cope well with strong winds, therefore, it prefers a warm temperate climate and a sheltered position for optimal growth. In the first decade, the Kauri can reach over 6 metres in height. Eventually, mature trees may grow to an impressive 30–50 metres tall so as a result, it makes an exceptional statement tree and a true icon of the New Zealand forest. Whether planted as a legacy tree or a focal point in a native garden, Agathis australis offers timeless appeal and ecological significance.
- 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.
- Hoheria populnea, known as Lacebark, is a compact evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its slender branches carry fresh, light green leaves that are semi-glossy, veined, and sharply toothed, giving it a delicate yet vibrant appearance. From late summer into autumn, the tree bursts into bloom with masses of starry, snow-white flowers. These striking blossoms often conceal the foliage, creating a dazzling seasonal display. The name “lacebark” refers to its fibrous inner bark, which resembles fine lace. This net-like material can be torn into ribbons and was traditionally used by Māori and Pākehā for weaving hats, capes, and baskets. Thriving in full sun, it prefers moist, well-drained soil that doesn’t dry out too much. With its graceful form and cultural significance, it makes an ideal shade tree for smaller gardens. Expect it to grow to approximately 5 metres tall and 3 metres wide.
- 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.
- Laurelia novae‑zealandiae – Pukatea is an evergreen native tree of New Zealand. It grows quickly, producing fresh green, oval, serrated foliage along shiny black branches. For many years, it maintains a columnar form before eventually developing into a large, round-headed specimen tree. Pukatea thrives in moist to wet, fertile soils. In fact, it excels in temperate to warm subtropical climates with high humidity and consistent rainfall. Its unique strength lies in its ability to grow in poorly drained, swampy areas where other trees often fail. Perfect for wetland areas. This tree is the perfect choice for challenging sites where others would not cope. In natural forest conditions, it can reach heights of up to 35 metres. However, in urban settings with compacted soils, it more commonly grows between 6 and 10 metres, making it suitable for gardens and landscapes.
- 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.
- Meryta sinclairii – Puka is a smaller evergreen tree native to New Zealand. Its upright, spreading branches hold huge, tropical-looking leaves that shine deep green. These handsome leaves can reach up to 50cm long and 20cm wide, creating a bold and lush display. From August to April, Puka produces inconspicuous white-green flowers. Shiny black fruits follow and remain year-round, attracting foraging birds anfd adding interest and contrast to the foliage. This tree thrives in warm, frost-free climates with moist, fertile, and well-drained soil. Moreover, it is highly tolerant of wind and salt, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens. Growing to approximately 5 x 3 metres, Puka works beautifully as a stand-alone specimen. It also serves well as a filler at the back of a garden, providing structure and tropical appeal.
