putaputawētā

Carpodetus serratus | marbleleaf, putaputawētā, piripiriwhata

This small, slow-growing tree starts with a tangled juvenile form but matures into an attractive specimen with large, marbled leaves. It bears white flowers followed by purple fruit that ripens to black from March to May.  Best suited for moist, semi-shaded sites, it is intolerant of drought, wind, and frost when young. Commonly found in various habitats, from coastal to montane areas, this tree is frequently used in revegetation projects.