Pōkākā

From Seed

Propagating Pōkākā (Elaeocarpus hookerianus) from seed requires patience and proper timing, as this native tree produces viable seed through its distinctive dark purple drupes. Collect fruits when fully ripe in autumn to early winter, typically from March to June, when they have developed their characteristic deep purple coloration and are soft to the touch. The timing is crucial as fresh seed has significantly higher germination rates than stored seed. Remove the fleshy outer layer by gently crushing the fruit and washing the seeds under lukewarm water until all pulp is removed, revealing the hard, pale brown seed coat beneath. The seeds benefit from cold stratification to break dormancy - place cleaned seeds in slightly moist sand or peat moss in sealed containers and refrigerate at 2-4°C for 2-3 months. This mimics the natural winter conditions the species experiences in its native habitat. After stratification, sow seeds in a well-draining seed-raising mix consisting of equal parts sterilized potting mix, perlite, and fine bark chips. Sow seeds at a depth of 1-2cm in individual pots or cellular trays, as seedlings develop deep taproots that dislike disturbance. Place in a warm, bright location with temperatures maintained at 18-22°C and provide consistent moisture without waterlogging. Germination typically occurs 4-8 weeks after sowing, though some seeds may remain dormant for longer periods. Young seedlings exhibit the characteristic juvenile divaricating growth pattern with small, densely branched stems before transitioning to the adult form with larger leaves as they mature.

From Cuttings

Vegetative propagation of Pōkākā through cuttings offers a reliable method for producing plants identical to the parent tree, though success requires attention to specific techniques suited to this native species. Take semi-hardwood cuttings during late summer to early autumn when the current season's growth has begun to harden but still retains some flexibility. Select healthy shoots 12-15cm long from vigorous, disease-free branches, avoiding both very soft growing tips and completely hardened older wood. The cuttings should include 3-4 nodes and be taken from the outer portions of the canopy where growth is most active. Remove all leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and reduce the size of remaining leaves by half to minimize moisture loss while maintaining some photosynthetic capacity. Make a clean cut just below a node using sharp, sterilized secateurs, then lightly wound the base by scraping away small sections of bark to expose the cambium and encourage root formation. Apply rooting hormone containing IBA (indole-3-butyric acid) at 3000-4000ppm concentration to the wounded base, ensuring even coverage. Insert cuttings into a propagation medium consisting of 60% perlite and 40% peat moss or coconut coir, providing excellent drainage while retaining adequate moisture. Maintain high humidity using a propagation tent or misting system while ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Keep temperatures steady at 20-24°C with gentle bottom heat if available. Root development typically occurs within 8-14 weeks, indicated by new shoot growth and resistance when gently tugged. Once well-rooted, gradually acclimatize plants to normal growing conditions over 4-6 weeks before transplanting.