Kaikomako

Scientific name: Pennantia corymbosa
Other names: Duck's foot

Tree (under 10m) - native to the Wellington Region
Suits: damp, shade, partial shade, sunny, shelter, coastal forest garden, small garden or balcony, wetlands and water features

About Kaikomako

Meaning "Food for the korimako" the bellbird, this small attractive tree starts as a juvenile dense tangled shrub with zig-zagging branches and small duckfooted shaped leaves. Somtimes leaves are somewhat marbled in coloration. Its tangled tendencies could be a potential moa browsing defense. During its growth for some years a change in structure after 32 to 3 metre occurs and the tree takes shape to a more adult tree form with larger, but still small duck footed leaves.

Fragrant, creamy white small flowers on red or white ish stalks in November to February, being wind and insectpollinated followed by shiny black drupes on female tree. The drupe, containing one large seed is eaten and spread by birds.

A tree of coastal and lowland forest often found along stream and sometimes around high tide mark. Works well in most garden situations and even large pots.

Provides for birds