Melicytus obovatus

Scientific name: Melicytus obovatus

Pioneer Shrub - native to the Wellington Region
Suits: dry, partial shade, sunny, shelter, exposure, coastal forest garden, coastal and dune garden, small garden or balcony

About Melicytus obovatus

The notable Melicytus obovatus is an endemic evergreen plant to Wellington and Cook strait regarded as; At Risk - Naturally Uncommon. A small shrub up to 1, 5 metre with dark glossy green leaves about 5cm long with networks of veins more visible on the paler underside. Edges can be either smooth or wavy, but does also vary depending on location and age of plant.

The bell shaped hanging flowers are small and yellow, but fragrant. The fruit that follows are white blotched with purple or blueblack and often having the white on the underside of the fruit. possibly an adaption to attract geckos and skinks..

Superior native alternative to many exotics M obovatus easily responds to trimming and can attain both required height and forms.. Its tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including coastal exposed gardens.

Provides for birds