Coastal Maire
Nestegis apetala
Nestegis apetala , commonly known as Coastal Maire or Broad-leaved Maire, is a handsome evergreen tree endemic to the North Island of New Zealand and the Three Kings Islands. This species is a significant component of coastal and lowland forests, prized for its robust growth, attractive broad leaves, and resilience in exposed maritime conditions. It plays an important ecological role, providing food and habitat for native wildlife.
Plant Description
Nestegis apetala typically grows as a small to medium-sized tree, reaching up to 10 meters in height, with a sturdy trunk and a dense, rounded crown. Its most distinctive feature is its large, thick, leathery, dark green leaves, which are oblong to obovate, usually 10-15 cm long, and have entire (smooth) margins. The leaves are glossy on the upper surface and paler beneath. In spring (typically October to November), it produces inconspicuous, apetalous (lacking petals) greenish flowers in small clusters along the branches. These are followed by abundant, small, oval, fleshy drupes (fruit) that ripen from green to bright red or orange-red in autumn, providing a valuable food source for native birds.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Nestegis apetala |
|---|---|
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Form | Evergreen tree |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil | Well-drained, tolerant of various soil types, including coastal |
| Water | Moderate, tolerant of some drought once established |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Frost Tolerance | Frost Tender |
| Salt Tolerance | High |
| Height | Up to 10 m |
| Spread | 4-6 m |
| Flowering Season | October to November (spring) |
| Fruit/Berry Season | Autumn |
| Flower Colour | Greenish (apetalous) |
| Foliage | Evergreen; large, thick, leathery, glossy dark green leaves |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
| Unique Features | Broad, glossy leaves, bright red fruit, coastal tolerance. |
Climate Best Suited to
Nestegis apetala , the coastal maire, thrives in warm coastal to lowland forests with mild, frost-free conditions. This species requires temperatures above 5°C, moderate to high humidity, and annual rainfall of 1000-1800mm. It performs best in northern regions with warm summers and protection from cold southerly winds.
Regional Suitability
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Marginal |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Marginal |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Marginal |
| Dunedin | Unsuitable |
| Invercargill | Unsuitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
Nestegis apetala is found in coastal and lowland forests, forest margins, and scrubland on the North Island of New Zealand and the Three Kings Islands. It typically grows in well-drained soils, often on exposed headlands, cliffs, and along the edges of native bush. Its resilience in maritime environments makes it a significant component of coastal forest ecosystems.
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
Nestegis apetala is classified as "Not Threatened" under the New Zealand Threat Classification System. It is a widespread and common species in suitable coastal and lowland habitats throughout its range. Its stable population status reflects its adaptability and ecological resilience.
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Nestegis apetala is a robust and relatively easy-to-grow native tree, particularly well-suited for coastal planting. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist, well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky substrates, but good drainage is crucial. Water regularly during dry periods, especially during establishment. It is moderately frost-hardy but benefits from shelter from harsh winds and severe frosts when young.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant Nestegis apetala in spring or autumn in a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. It is an excellent choice for coastal gardens or as a specimen tree in larger native plantings. Dig a planting hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. Incorporate some organic matter to improve soil structure, but avoid over-fertilizing. Plant at the same level as its nursery container, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
Nestegis apetala plays a valuable ecological role in coastal and lowland forest ecosystems. Its foliage provides shelter and its abundant bright red fruit is a significant food source for native birds, which in turn aid in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Its dense canopy contributes to the forest structure, creating microclimates for other understory species.
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Nestegis apetala is an attractive and versatile tree for native gardens, shelterbelts, and ecological restoration projects, particularly in coastal areas. Its robust growth, glossy foliage, and bright red fruit provide year-round interest and enhance biodiversity. It is also valued for its strong, durable timber, although it is not extensively logged today.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Coastal Maire is an excellent choice for a specimen tree, screen, or hedging plant in coastal and lowland native gardens. Its dense, broad, evergreen foliage provides year-round structure and shelter. The bright red fruit in autumn adds a vibrant splash of colour. It can be planted in groups to form an effective windbreak in exposed locations.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Nestegis apetala is a low-maintenance tree once established. Water regularly during prolonged dry periods, especially in summer. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release native plant fertilizer if desired. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its natural shape. Protect young plants from severe frosts in colder regions.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Prune Nestegis apetala to maintain its shape, control its size, or remove any dead, damaged, or straggly branches. It can tolerate moderate pruning and can be trimmed to form a denser hedge or screen. The best time to prune is after fruiting or in late winter/early spring before new growth begins.
How to Grow Coastal Maire
From Seed
Propagation of Nestegis apetala from fresh seed is a reliable method. Collect ripe fruit in autumn when they have turned bright red or orange-red. Clean the fleshy pulp from the seeds thoroughly, as this can inhibit germination. These seeds often benefit from a period of cold stratification (e.g., 2-3 months in a refrigerator) to break dormancy, mimicking natural winter conditions. Sow pre-treated seeds onto a well-draining seed-raising mix, lightly covering them. Maintain consistent moisture and provide cool to moderate temperatures (around 15-20°C or 60-68°F) in a protected environment. Germination can be erratic and may take several weeks to months. Once seedlings are robust enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a sheltered, bright location, protecting them from direct sunlight and frost, until strong enough for planting out.
From Cuttings
Nestegis apetala can be successfully propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Select healthy, non-flowering shoots, about 10-15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Insert the cuttings into a free-draining rooting medium such as a mix of sand and perlite. Provide high humidity around the cuttings, either by placing them in a propagation chamber or covering them with a plastic bag, and ensure consistent moisture in the rooting medium. Keep in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Rooting typically occurs within 8-16 weeks. Once rooted, gradually acclimatize plants to ambient conditions before potting up.
General Cultivation
Coastal Maire (Nestegis apetala) is a handsome, robust, and relatively easy-to-grow native tree, particularly well-suited for coastal planting. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires moist, well-drained soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky substrates, but good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Water regularly during dry periods, especially during establishment. It is moderately frost-hardy but benefits from shelter from harsh winds and severe frosts, particularly when young. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep the root zone cool. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its natural shape; it can tolerate moderate pruning to form a denser hedge or screen, with the best time being after fruiting or in late winter/early spring.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Nestegis apetala is generally a robust and healthy tree with few significant pest or disease problems. The main issues are related to environmental stressors such as poor drainage, which can lead to root rot, or severe frosts damaging young growth. Occasionally, common garden pests might appear, but these are usually manageable.
Cultural Significance
Traditional Uses and Values
Nestegis apetala , known as Coastal Maire, is a species of cultural significance to Māori, who utilized various `Nestegis` species for their strong, durable timber. The wood was highly valued for tools, weapons, and construction. Its presence in coastal and lowland forests made it a familiar and important resource. It contributes to the rich botanical heritage of Aotearoa.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
Nestegis apetala is an excellent choice for coastal shelterbelts, providing robust, evergreen protection from salt-laden winds. Its attractive foliage and bird-attracting fruit add both ecological value and aesthetic appeal to such plantings.
