pukatea
Laurelia novae-zelandiae | pukatea
Characterised by a distinctive buttressed trunk providing lateral stability, this slow-growing tree displays attractive, glossy green leaves with serrated edges. It flourishes in moist environments making it a popular choice for planting near swampy areas or along stream banks, as a striking specimen tree, or as part of revegetation projects.
typical habitat.
swamp forest
valley forest
drainage.
moist
well drained
sun.
partial shade
full shade
mature specifications.
height | 35m
width | 10m / 2m (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | (September) October - December
fruiting | October – January
did you know?
Māori traditionally utilised the bark for its analgesic properties, boiling the inner layer to create a medicinal decoction. Additionally, the pulped inner bark was held in the mouth to alleviate toothache. This pain-relieving effect is attributed to pukateine, a compound found in the bark with a chemical structure resembling morphine.