mataī

Prumnopitys taxifolia | mataī, black pine

A unique tree that undergoes a dramatic transformation as it matures.  Its early life is characterised by a tangle of orange-brown branches, quite unlike its mature form, which boasts a tall, handsome silhouette, purple-black fruit attractive to birds, and distinctive, hammered bark.  A slow growing, native evergreen that likes full sun or part shade and moist, free-draining soil. Frost hardy and tolerates coastal conditions. While young, it benefits from protection from frost.