Endemic. Characteristic of our landscape, they are common throughout Aotearoa from coast to montane riparian forest. An iconic palm-like tree growing to 8m with an erect rough barked trunk branching into tufts of tough long narrow pointed leaves and featuring bushy sprays of small white fragrant flowers. Dead leaves often form a skirt around branches.
Flowering in late spring, the stunning cream flowers are borne in large panicles that emit a sweet fragrance and enhance visual appeal. The small, white fruit in mid-summer to early-autumn provides a generous food source for birds.
Hardy enough to grow in most situations, Tī kouka is favoured for restoration planting because of its limited height and bushy foliage at the top of bare stems making it a valuable screening tree, while allowing light to surrounding vegetation. It is also a versatile choice for urban group plantings, garden specimens or in containers.
Tī kouka are intolerant of shade and drought but cope well with waterlogged roots.
