mangeao

Litsea calicaris | mangeao, tangeao

 

A slow-growing yet sturdy and attractive upright tree with a spreading crown, reaching up to 18 meters in height once established. While difficult to grow, it rewards with slightly reddish-toned foliage and bright red, juicy fruit that tūī adore. It thrives best on good quality, well-drained soils, particularly limestone-derived soils or heavy clays, and has low drought tolerance. Young trees are very frost-tender. In spring, it produces small clusters of fragrant yellowish flowers, followed a year later by the deep red fruit that attracts birds. This dioecious tree yields tough, high-quality medium-density hardwood and was used medicinally by both Māori and early settlers.

coastal forest

lowland forest

well drained

moist

full sun

partial shade

height | 18m

width | 2m / 90cm (trunk)

flowering | September - November

fruiting | September - March

Mangeao yields high-quality timber known for its exceptional strength and flexibility. The wood is white, firm, and strong, offering a combination of toughness, elasticity, and light weight. In the 19th century, its versatility led to its use in crafting barrels, wheels, boat frames, railway carriages, and sporting goods. It also produces a superior sliced veneer. Current applications include the making of violins and kayak ribs. Notably, it was even used in the construction of the 9th floor of New Zealand's Beehive building.