whārangi
about.
Melicope ternata | whārangi
A fast-growing, evergreen tree found in coastal to lowland forests from North Cape to Nelson. Its glossy green, trifoliate leaves have a citrus scent when crushed. Small creamy-green spring flowers yield clusters of dry brown capsules with shiny black seeds in late summer brighten gardens and attract birds. Valued for its bright foliage and rapid growth, whārangi suits mixed plantings and tolerates most conditions in sun to It's useful for shelter, screening, backdrops, revegetation, and mixed plantings.
typical habitat.
coastal forest
lowland forest
forest margins
drainage.
well drained
free draining
dry
sun.
full sun
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 8m
width | 3m / 20cm (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | September - October
fruiting | October – February (-April)
did you know?
Māori traditionally chewed whārangi gum to sweeten and freshen breath. They also utilised it to create fragrant hair oils and perfumes.