Agathis australis (Kauri)

Kauri forests were once a dominant feature of Auckland and Northland and had great importance to Maori and early European settlers.  Despite their northern natural distribution, they grow well in the Dunedin coastal area.

Kauri develop a natural conical form which is quite narrow so are not too large for the average suburban garden.

The perfectly spherical female cones develop on quite young trees and are an added feature of this plant.

Pachystegia insiginis (Marlborough Rock Daisy)

This is a stunning plant with its bold leathery, white rimmed foliage and furry undersides.  The chunky, yellow centred daisy flowers are an added bonus in the summer.  These plants need a dry sunny site and are wind tolerant.

Rhopalostylis sapida (Nikau)

The nikau is New Zealand’s only native palm and makes a dramatic landscape statement. Best with part shade and some moisture.  Looks great in a group planting.

Metrosideros "Mistral" (Rata x Pohutukawa hybrid)

Rata and pohutukawa are iconic native trees with spectacular displays of red flowers during summer.  The flowers have abundant nectar so are attractive to native birds such as bellbirds and tui.  They are great coastal trees and pohutukawa are especially wind and dry tollerant but require some frost protection when young.  Plants can be pruned if required and some smaller growing varieties are available.

Cordyline australis (Cabbage Tree)

Cabbage trees are a stiking feature of the New Zealand landscape.  They occur all over the country from swamps to bush edge and mountain sides.  They also make great garden plants with their unique form, foliage and trunk texture.  There are several species and numerous cultivars with a range of heights.  All have beautifully scented flowers in summer and fruit for birds.

Cyathea medullaris (Mamaku)

Tree ferns form a conspicuous part of the New Zealand flora and the mamaku is the largest and quickest growing species.  It requires some moisture and dislikes heavy frosts.  All of the tree fern species do best with some shelter and most will grow in sun or shade.  The Silver Fern is a must for every NZ garden while Dicksonia fibrosa is the most frost tolerant.  Tree ferns are classic native plants and make a real statement in the garden, especially when planted in groups.

Pseudopanax ferox (Lancewood)

This is a classic kiwi plant that is a "must-have" for every NZ garden.  The long leathery descending serrated leaves of the juvenile make it one of the most distinctive plants in the landscape.  Over time, the trunk becomes deeply grooved and adds to the character of this great plant. It is fascinating to watch the transformation from juvenile to adult as this plant radically changes its appearance over the years.  This plant is particularly effective when planted in groups.