Natives
Kawakawa (pepper tree)
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Puka or pukanui (Meryta sinclairii) is an evergreen perennial tree endemic to New Zealand’s Three Kings Islands. It develops an upright form and rounded crown, with exceptionally large, thick, glossy leaves that create a tropical appearance. Small greenish flowers appear mainly from winter to autumn, followed by clusters of fleshy black-purple fruit that attract birds.
Puka is suited to sheltered coastal gardens, large native borders, informal hedging and specimen planting. Grow in full sun or partial shade in humus-rich, free-draining soil. Water regularly while establishing and protect from frost, particularly when young. It tolerates coastal wind and salt exposure and may reach approximately 8 m tall.
Native origin: New Zealand — endemic to the Three Kings Islands
Plant type: Evergreen perennial tree
Companion Plants: Karo, karaka, kawakawa, taupata and rengarenga lily.
Key difference: Exceptionally large glossy leaves create a tropical appearance. Evergreen native tree ideal as a sheltered coastal specimen.
Size PB2
