Horopito

Scientific name: Pseudowintera axillaris
English name: Pepper tree
Other names: Lowland horopito, lowland pepper tree

Tree, shrub (under 10m) - native to the Wellington Region
Suits: damp, dry, shade, partial shade, sunny, shelter, exposure, coastal forest garden

About Horopito

Horopito belongs to of the most primitive families of the flowering plants and endemic to New Zealand. Lowland horopito is regarded as a shrub or a small tree, growing up to 7 metre, however often less. The trunk and branches upright with a dark coloration. Dark green leaves  between 6-10cm long and  3-6cm wide with glossy surfaces and a pale underside, creating interesting flashes of colour as plants shakes in the wind. The leaves taste spicy/peppery, but are also antifungal and has been used by maori for a variety of medicinal purposes. Small flowers  about 1 cm in a greenish yellow coloration. Growing in groups of 3-10 off the branchlets, they have a faint fragrance. A red fruit is followed in winter or early spring attracting birds.

An ideal garden plant in a urban garden as they do not get too big and need minimal attention. Plant them on the edge of the bush or for a shelter.

Provides for birds