ongaonga

Urtica ferox | ongaonga, tree nettle

NOTE | The tree nettle is one of New Zealand's most poisonous native plants.  

It thrives in lowland temperate bush, including disturbed areas like stock-damaged scrubland and forest edges. This remarkable plant tolerates temperatures down to -8°C, shedding leaves in colder climates. It is the primary food source for the larvae of both the New Zealand Red Admiral (Bassaris gonerilla) and Yellow Admiral (Vanessa itea) butterflies. Easily grown from fresh seed though not advisable to be cultivated due to its poisonous nature and as such is only suitable for restoration.