Hutu
Ascarina lucida
Hutu is a glossy-leaved native forest tree or large shrub (Chloranthaceae) with distinctive catkin-like inflorescences. It prefers sheltered, moist but free-draining sites in lowland forest and is valued for its lush foliage and graceful habit in larger gardens. trees .
Plant Description
Evergreen tree to small tree with glossy leaves, often finely toothed; catkin-like, unisexual inflorescences typical of Chloranthaceae. Forms a rounded crown in sheltered conditions. Fruits are small drupes.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Ascarina lucida |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Hutu |
| Family | Chloranthaceae |
| Form | Evergreen tree/small tree |
| Light | Filtered light to part shade; shelter from strong winds |
| Soil | Moist, free-draining, humus-rich |
| Height | 2-8 m (varies with site) |
| Spread | 40-120 cm across |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Frost Tolerance | High - tolerant of severe freezes |
| Salt Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Mild, frost-free to light-frost climates with adequate moisture and shelter.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Moderate |
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Natural Habitat
Distribution
Hutu (Ascarina lucida) is found in lowland and montane forests, particularly favoring wetter areas, coastal regions, and forest margins. It is most abundant in the South Island, especially in North-West Nelson and Westland, but also occurs in the North Island. Hutu is an adaptable species that often colonizes disturbed sites and early successional communities, playing a role in forest regeneration.
Conservation Status
Current Status
Nationally, Ascarina lucida is classified as "Not Threatened". However, its status varies regionally; for instance, it is considered "Regionally Endangered" in the Auckland region. The species is sensitive to environmental stressors such as severe frost and drought, which can limit its distribution and survival in certain areas.
Growing Requirements
Soil
Humus-rich, free-draining soils; mulch with leaf litter to conserve moisture.
Light
Dappled light/part shade; protect from desiccating winds.
Water
Moderate and consistent, especially in establishment.
Planting Guide
Site Selection
Plant Hutu in a sheltered position with moist, free-draining soil. It thrives in partial shade to full sun, provided it is protected from strong, drying winds and harsh frosts. Autumn or spring are the best times to plant to allow roots to establish before climatic extremes. Mulching helps conserve soil moisture, which is critical for this species.
Ecological Role
Ecosystem Interactions
Ascarina lucida is scientifically significant as the only New Zealand representative of the ancient Chloranthaceae family. It is primarily wind-pollinated, although honeybees may visit the flowers. The fleshy white/purple fruits are an important food source for native birds, particularly the Silvereye (Tauhou), which plays a key role in dispersing the seeds, aiding the plant's spread in forest ecosystems.
Uses
Landscape Value
With its striking glossy, yellow-green foliage and attractive purple-red stems, Hutu is a valued ornamental plant. It is excellent as a specimen tree, a background screen, or in riparian plantings. Its tolerance of moist soils makes it useful for damp areas of the garden. The foliage provides excellent year-round greenery and structure.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.
Pruning
Maintenance
Pruning is generally not essential for Hutu, as it naturally forms a neat, bushy shrub. However, light shaping can be carried out in late winter if needed. Focus on removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain plant health and open up the canopy for better airflow. Avoid heavy pruning, especially during drought or frost-prone periods.
How to Grow Hutu
From Seed
Propagation of Ascarina lucida is most commonly achieved from fresh seed. Collect the small, dark drupes when they ripen in late summer or autumn. Clean the pulp from the seeds to improve germination rates. Sow the fresh seed onto a surface of moist, well-draining seed-raising mix. Do not bury them deeply; a light dusting of mix or vermiculite is sufficient. Keep the tray in a shaded, warm spot and maintain consistent moisture. Germination can be slow and erratic, sometimes taking several months, so patience is required. Once seedlings appear and have developed their first true leaves, prick them out into individual pots.
From Cuttings
Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer offer an alternative method of propagation. Select healthy, non-flowering tip growth about 10-15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone gel or powder to stimulate root production. Insert the cuttings into a free-draining mix of sand and peat or perlite. Placing the cuttings in a propagating case with bottom heat and high humidity (mist) significantly improves success rates. Roots should develop within a few months, after which the new plants can be hardened off before potting up.
General Cultivation
Hutu is a stunning foliage plant that thrives in conditions mimicking its natural forest habitat. It requires a sheltered position protected from strong winds and harsh frost, as the foliage is easily damaged by cold and desiccation. Ideally, plant it in partial shade or filtered light, although it can tolerate more sun if the soil is kept consistently moist. The soil should be humus-rich, cool, and free-draining; it does not tolerate drought or waterlogging. A layer of organic mulch applied annually will help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. While relatively slow-growing initially, established plants are low-maintenance and form an attractive, rounded shrub or small tree.
Pests and Diseases
Health Issues
Hutu is relatively pest-free but can be sensitive to environmental stress. Its main vulnerabilities are physiological rather than biological: it dislikes drying out and is susceptible to frost damage on new growth. Ensure consistent soil moisture and shelter from cold winds to keep plants healthy and resilient against opportunistic pathogens.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Use
The name "Hutu" is of Māori origin. Historically, branches of the Hutu tree were utilized in specific ceremonies, such as the ritual performed after childbirth to remove tapu (sacred restriction) and impart strength and vitality to the newborn, highlighting the plant's spiritual importance.
Bonus Tip
Ancient Lineage
Ascarina lucida belongs to the Chloranthaceae family, one of the most primitive families of flowering plants (angiosperms) still in existence. Growing this plant connects your garden to an ancient lineage of flora that dates back to the early evolution of flowering plants. Its specific epithet, lucida, means "shining," aptly describing its glossy leaves.
