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
| 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) |
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.
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 | Ideal |
| Dunedin | Ideal |
| Invercargill | Ideal |
Low maintenance once established. Occasional pruning to maintain shape and remove any damaged branches is all that's typically required.
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.
Akeake, also known as Hopbush, is a remarkably hardy and versatile native shrub or small tree, highly valued for its resilience in coastal and exposed environments. Its attractive purple-tinged foliage, tolerance of poor soils, and ability to withstand wind and salt spray make it an excellent choice for shelterbelts, hedges, and ecological restoration projects. Understanding its propagation methods is key to successfully growing this adaptable species.
Propagating Akeake from seed is a straightforward and reliable method. Collect the distinctive papery seed capsules when they turn reddish-brown, typically in late summer or autumn, but before they open and release their seeds. Allow the capsules to dry in a paper bag to collect the seeds. Sow the fresh seeds in a well-draining seed-raising mix, lightly covering them. Maintain consistent moisture and provide a warm, bright position for germination. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks, but can sometimes be erratic. Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be potted into individual containers and grown in a sheltered location before planting out into the garden.
Akeake can also be easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings, typically taken in late summer or autumn from healthy, current season's growth. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone for best results. Plant the cuttings into a free-draining propagation mix, such as a blend of perlite and sand. Maintain high humidity around the cuttings, perhaps by placing them under a plastic dome or in a propagator, and ensure consistent moisture in the cutting mix. Rooting usually occurs within 6-8 weeks. Once rooted, the new plants can be potted on and grown in a sheltered environment until they are ready for planting.
Akeake is generally very resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance addition to most gardens.
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.
Coastal plants like ngaio, pohutukawa, and coastal coprosma are excellent companions. They share similar salt and wind tolerance.
Akeake is naturally found in specific habitats throughout New Zealand. Understanding its natural environment helps in providing appropriate growing conditions in cultivation.
The ecology of Dodonaea involves its interactions with other species and its role in ecosystem processes. Understanding these relationships helps in conservation and cultivation.
Akeake interacts with various native birds, insects, and other plants, contributing to the overall biodiversity of New Zealand's ecosystems.
The plant has evolved various adaptations to survive in challenging environments, including drought tolerance and resistance to salt spray.
Akeake is not threatened but can be affected by habitat modification. It is valued for its durable timber and wildlife habitat.
Akeake is not currently threatened and is widespread throughout New Zealand. However, protecting its natural habitats and promoting its use in gardens helps maintain genetic diversity.
Individuals can contribute to conservation by:
Akeake thrives in a wide range of soils, including sandy, rocky, and poor soils, as long as drainage is good. It prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Once established , it is highly drought and wind tolerant, making it ideal for exposed and coastal sites. Mulch young plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as Akeake does not tolerate poor drainage.
Dodonaea is highly valued in landscaping for its aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. It can be used in various garden styles and landscape applications.
Consider the plant's mature size, growth rate, and maintenance requirements when incorporating it into landscape designs. Its adaptability makes it suitable for challenging sites where other plants may struggle.
Dodonaea plays an important ecological role in New Zealand's native ecosystems. It provides habitat and food for native wildlife and contributes to ecosystem health and biodiversity.
Akeake provides valuable habitat for native birds, insects, and other wildlife. The dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites, while the seeds are an important food source for various bird species.
The plant contributes to soil stabilization, particularly in coastal and exposed areas, and helps prevent erosion. Its deep root system helps improve soil structure and water infiltration.
As a pioneer species, Akeake plays a crucial role in ecological succession, colonizing disturbed sites and creating conditions suitable for other native plants to establish.
Akeake ( Dodonaea viscosa ) is a distinctive native plant with unique botanical characteristics that make it well-suited to New Zealand's diverse environments. This species exhibits typical features of its genus and family, with specialized adaptations that allow it to thrive in its natural habitat. The plant 's morphological features, including its leaf structure, growth habit, and reproductive characteristics, reflect millions of years of evolution in New Zealand's isolated environment. Understanding the botanical description of Akeake helps gardeners appreciate its unique characteristics and provides insight into its cultivation requirements and ecological role.
Akeake ( Dodonaea viscosa ) is an excellent choice for challenging sites where other plants struggle to establish. This hardy native shrub is particularly well-suited for coastal gardens, exposed positions, and areas with poor soil conditions.
Proper planting techniques are crucial for the successful establishment of Dodonaea. Taking time to prepare the site and follow best practices will help ensure the plant thrives in its new location.
Consider the plant's mature size and growth habit when selecting a planting location. This planning helps avoid future problems and creates more sustainable, low-maintenance landscapes.
Choose a location that accommodates the plant's needs:
Prepare the soil to meet the plant's requirements:
Follow these steps for successful establishment:
During the first growing season:
Akeake (Dodonaea viscosa) has cultural and ecological significance in Aotearoa New Zealand. It supports native biodiversity, contributes to habitat structure, and is valued in restoration and garden plantings. Within mātauranga Māori, native plants like this help sustain the health of the ngahere (forest) and local ecosystems.
