tarata
Pittosporum eugenioides | lemonwood, tarata
A fast-growing evergreen tree, ideal for shelter or hedging, boasting highly fragrant flowers that attract pollinators. Its long, light-green leaves are glossy, and when crushed, the green-yellow foliage emits a strong lemony scent. In spring, it produces large clusters of fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers, which develop into small, bird-attracting fruit. Typically reaching 12 meters in height and 5 meters in width with a broad, conical form, Lemonwood is commonly used for hedging, screening, or as an attractive specimen tree. Young plants are sensitive to frost.
typical habitat.
lowland forest
montane forest
coastal forest
forest margins
lower montane forest
coastal scrub
drainage.
moist
well drained
sun.
full sun
full shade
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 12m
width | 5m / 60cm (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | October - December
fruiting | October - January
did you know?
Māori traditionally utilised the gum and crushed leaves and flowers of the tarata for their fragrance, often combining them with plant oils like tītoki and kōhia. The tree's gum was also employed as a remedy for bad breath; it was rolled into a ball and was believed to retain its effectiveness for an entire generation. Additionally, the chewed gum served as an excellent adhesive.