whārangi

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.