Endemic. A spreading tree bearing glossy yellow-green to dark green spotted oval leaves. Hardy and fast-growing (up to 10m) the new growth is very glossy, dark and sticky. Flowers, at base of leaves are white with purple spots, occurring in mid-spring and the pink fruit develops on stalks.
Ngaio is a very familiar salt-tolerant species commonly found in coastal areas, and also in lowland forests throughout Aotearoa. It is used as rongoa by Māori for skin complaints and as an insect repellent; rub young shoots or an infusion of leaves onto the skin toward off mosquitoes and sandflies.
