One of NZ’s most culturally important ‘rakau rangitira’ or ‘noble trees’ that can live 1000 years or more but also be topiarised and clipped ot fabulous forms for Japense-inspired gardens. Female trees produce succulent, sweet red fruits with a gren seed at the tip – for people and birds. Super-adaptable and realtively unplatable to stock but not possums.

Leaves and wood contain Volatile organic compunds that resit rot, hence the large trees value for building waka. Nedle-sharp leaves are soft when young, and he ones to scrunch, rub and niff!