Dodonaea viscosa
Dodonaea viscosa
Dodonaea viscosa is a hardy shrub or small tree native to New Zealand, known for its resilience in coastal and exposed environments. It is valued for its attractive purple-tinged foliage, tolerance of poor soils, and ability to withstand wind and salt spray. The plant is often used for shelterbelts, hedges, and ecological restoration projects. native trees
Image credit: Akeake (Dodonaea viscosa). Photo via Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Dodonaea viscosa |
|---|---|
| Height | 2–7 m (occasionally up to 10 m) |
| Spread | 2–4 m |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate; hardy to about -5°C |
| Salt Tolerance | High; tolerates coastal conditions and salt spray |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Lifespan | Long-lived (decades) |
Climate & Conditions
Natural Habitat
Akeake is naturally found in coastal and lowland areas throughout New Zealand, particularly in drier eastern regions. It's a pioneer species that colonizes disturbed sites, rocky areas, and forest margins.
Preferred Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade.
- Wind Tolerance: Exceptional resistance to strong winds, including salt-laden coastal winds.
- Temperature Range: Hardy to about -5°C. Young plants may need protection in hard frosts.
- Rainfall: Drought tolerant once established, though responds well to occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.
Adaptability
Akeake is renowned for its adaptability to challenging sites, making it ideal for coastal gardens, exposed positions, and poor soils. It's particularly valuable in areas where other plants struggle to establish.
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Ideal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Good |
| Dunedin | Moderate |
| Invercargill | Marginal |
Requirements
Growing & Maintenance
General Care
- Watering: Water regularly until established, then only during prolonged drought.
- Feeding: Generally not required, though a light application of slow-release fertilizer in spring can promote vigorous growth.
- Pruning: Responds well to pruning and can be shaped as desired. Prune in late winter or early spring.
Maintenance Level
Low maintenance once established. Occasional pruning to maintain shape and remove any damaged branches is all that's typically required.
Uses & Significance
- Popular for shelterbelts, hedges, and windbreaks in coastal and exposed gardens
- Valued for rapid growth and resilience in poor soils
- Used in ecological restoration and dune stabilization projects
- Provides habitat and shelter for native birds and insects
- Timber traditionally used for tools and implements
Seasonal Care
- Spring: Prune to shape, apply mulch, and check for new growth
- Summer: Water young plants during prolonged dry periods
- Autumn: Plant new specimens, enjoy colorful seed capsules
- Winter: Protect young plants from severe frost if needed
Pruning
Prune Dodonaea viscosa in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Regular trimming is recommended for hedges and screens.
Planting Guide
- Choose a sunny, well-drained site
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
- Mix compost into poor soils if needed
- Plant at the same depth as in the container
- Water thoroughly after planting
- Mulch to retain moisture, keeping away from the trunk
Propagation
From Seed
- Collect seed when capsules turn reddish-brown but before they open.
- Dry capsules in a paper bag to catch seeds as they release.
- Sow fresh seed in a well-draining seed-raising mix.
- Keep moist and in a warm position.
- Germination typically takes 2-4 weeks.
From Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer or autumn.
- Dip in rooting hormone for best results.
- Place in a free-draining propagation mix.
- Keep humid but not wet until rooted, usually within 6-8 weeks.
Cultural History
Akeake was highly valued by Māori for its extremely hard wood, used to make tools and weapons. The name 'Akeake' means 'forever and ever,' reflecting the timber's durability. Early European settlers also used the wood for tool handles and machinery parts.
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- Scale Insects: May occasionally infest stems and leaves. Control with horticultural oil if severe.
- Aphids: Can affect new growth. Usually controlled by natural predators.
Disease Prevention
- Root Rot: Avoid waterlogged soils to prevent root diseases.
- General Health: Ensuring good air circulation helps prevent fungal issues.
Akeake is generally very resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to most gardens.
Bonus Tip
Create a stunning color contrast in your garden by planting the purple-leaved form of Akeake (Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea') alongside plants with silver or golden foliage. Good companions include Corokia 'Frosted Chocolate', Libertia peregrinans (for its orange-toned foliage), and Astelia chathamica (for silver contrast). This combination works particularly well in coastal gardens where these hardy natives will thrive while creating year-round visual interest through foliage contrast rather than relying on seasonal flowers.
