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.

coastal forest

montane forest

streamsides

forest margins

wet

moist

full sun

partial shade

height | 10m

width | 4m / 30cm (trunk)

flowering | November-March

fruiting |  January-February (though dried fruit present at any time)

The name putaputawētā highlights the ecological significance of this tree. It provides a home for wētā within the holes created by pūriri moth larvae. These holes also become feeding sites for the small brown bush ant, demonstrating the tree's role in supporting a diverse range of species.