Broadleaf

Scientific name: Griselinia littoralis, G. lucida
Maori name: G. littoralis – Kapuka, papauma, G. lucida – Puka, akapuka

Tree, shrub (10m - 15m) - native to the Wellington Region
Suits: damp, dry, partial shade, sunny, shelter, exposure, coastal forest garden, small garden or balcony

About Broadleaf

Probably one of our most planted natives. There are two species of the broadleaf griselinia in New Zealand. Easily recognised by its large, glossy evergreen leaves growing up to 18cm long and 12cm wide in G lucida while smaler, 5-10cm long by 2-5cm in C littoralis. Both often with a emerald green tone and slight pale green underside. The fruit is small and dark purple, sitting in small clusters. Bushy tree or small shrub In littoralis while lucida acts more of a vine. Both species having dark trunks. Both trees can be epiphytic, sending down aerial roots to the ground and later in life to become free standing individuals. They are often found in the company of the epiphytic species Astelia solandri and Collospermum hastatum that establishes in the forks of large trees, thereby providing stable platforms.

If Griselinia is to be used for ecological revegetation, remember that male and female flowering occur on different plants. If one plant specimens is of a named garden variety, they will be sterile.

Broadleaf is excellent for shelter and pots. It grows quickly and is dry and wind tolerant as well as full sun and some salt spray. They are used in a variety of ways in gardens, although mostly for hedging.

Provides for birds