<i>Nestegis cunninghamii</i>(Nestegis cunninghamii) hero image

Black Maire

Nestegis cunninghamii

Not specified

This native plant, known as Black Maire(scientific name: Nestegis cunninghamii ), is a remarkable species endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its unique features, ecological role, and cultural significance. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its care, propagation, and importance within the New Zealand ecosystem. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for Browse All .

<i>Nestegis cunninghamii</i>(Nestegis cunninghamii) showing <i>Nestegis cunninghamii</i>growth habit
Image credit: Black Maire ( Nestegis cunninghamii ) - Photo via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Identification and Physical Characteristics

Black Maire ( Nestegis cunninghamii ) is a native evergreen tree of New Zealand, growing to impressive heights of over 20 meters, with a trunk up to 1 Discover more about native trees.5 meters in diameter. The tree is characterized by its rough, corky bark, which often has a square-patterned or tessellated appearance. Its leaves are dark green, long, narrow, and leathery, typically arranged in opposite pairs. Adult leaves measure 7-15 cm in length and 1.5-4.5 cm in width, with a pronounced recessed or sunken midrib on the upper surface and clearly visible veins on the pale green underside. Juvenile leaves are notably longer and very thin, reaching 15-25 cm. It produces small flowers, 3-5 mm in diameter, with four green petals. These develop into striking red or yellow drupes (fruits) that are 1-2 cm long and contain a single hard seed. Fruiting typically occurs from December to April.

Quick Facts

Nestegis cunninghamii quick facts
Scientific Name Nestegis cunninghamii
Height Up to 20 m
Spread Up to 8 m
Water Needs Moderate to high
Light Partial shade to full shade
Frost Tolerance Moderate
Salt Tolerance Low
Growth Rate Medium
Lifespan Long

Climate Best Suited to

Nestegis cunninghamii is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Nestegis cunninghamii
City Climate Suitability
Auckland High
Wellington High
Christchurch Medium

Plant Habitat

Natural Occurrence and Ecology

Understand the natural habitat of Black Maire ( Nestegis cunninghamii ), which is found throughout the North Island and northern South Island of New Zealand, in lowland and montane forests. This section details its geographical distribution, preferred environmental conditions, and the types of ecosystems where it naturally occurs.Widespread across the North Island and northern South Island.Found in lowland and montane forests, often in damp gullies and understories.Prefers sheltered sites with good air circulation.Thrives in partial to full shade.Its broad habitat range highlights its adaptability and resilience, making it a fascinating subject for ecological study.

Growing Requirements

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

  • Well-drained
  • Loamy

Light Requirements

Grows best in partial to full sun.

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade

Water Requirements

Requires regular watering during dry periods.

  • Regular
  • Drought tolerant once established

Planting and Establishing

Establishment Guidance

Plant Nestegis cunninghamii in a hole twice the width of the root ball.

Proper establishment is key to long-term success. Ensure the planting hole is twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with a mix of native soil and organic compost. Initial watering should be thorough, followed by regular monitoring during the first two growing seasons to ensure the plant becomes well-anchored and resilient to local climate fluctuations.

Ecological Role

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact

Provides habitat and food for native fauna.

This species plays a vital role in its local ecosystem, providing essential habitat and food sources for native biodiversity. Its presence supports complex ecological interactions, contributing to the overall health and stability of the environment. By planting this native, you help maintain the intricate web of life that defines New Zealand's unique natural heritage.

Uses & Significance

Garden Uses

Ideal for rock gardens and native borders.

  • Rock gardens
  • Ground cover

Ecological Value

Supports local pollinators.

  • Birds
  • Insects

The versatility of this plant makes it a valuable addition to many New Zealand gardens. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it offers practical benefits such as soil stabilization and shelter for smaller plants. Its historical and modern uses highlight its enduring importance in both traditional practices and contemporary landscape design, making it a thoughtful choice for any restoration or gardening project.

Landscaping Uses

Adds texture and form to modern landscapes.

In a landscape setting, this plant provides excellent structure and year-round interest. Its unique form and foliage can be used to create focal points or as a cohesive element in a larger native planting scheme. It pairs well with other New Zealand natives, allowing for the creation of diverse and resilient garden environments that reflect the natural beauty of Aotearoa.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Mulch and apply balanced fertilizer.

  • Fertilize
  • Mulch

Summer

Water deeply during dry spells.

  • Water
  • Check for pests

Autumn

Tidy up any dead foliage.

  • Prune lightly
  • Plant new specimens

Winter

Protect from heavy frosts if necessary.

  • Frost protection

When to Prune and How Much

Minimal pruning required to maintain shape.

  • Remove dead branches

Always use clean, sharp tools.

Regular maintenance through careful pruning ensures the plant remains healthy and maintains its desired shape. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood to promote better air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens. Proper pruning techniques help the plant direct its energy toward new growth, resulting in a more robust and aesthetically pleasing specimen in your garden.

How to Grow Black Maire

Cultivating Nestegis cunninghamii ( Nestegis cunninghamii ) is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener interested in New Zealand's unique flora. This species can be propagated through several methods, each requiring specific conditions to ensure healthy growth and establishment. Successful propagation depends on mimicking the plant's natural environment and providing consistent care during the early stages of development.

From Seed

Propagation from seed is often the most effective way to produce a large number of Nestegis Cunninghamii plants. Seeds should be collected when they are fully mature. Freshly collected seeds generally have higher germination rates than those that have been stored for long periods.

Sow fresh seeds in a seed-raising mix.

  1. Collect seeds
  2. Sow in trays

Keep moist until germination.

From Cuttings

For those wishing to replicate specific characteristics of a parent plant, vegetative propagation via cuttings is the preferred method. This technique ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the source. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the appropriate season usually yield the best results for this species.

Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

  1. Take cuttings
  2. Use rooting hormone

Additional Methods

Depending on the growth habit of Nestegis cunninghamii , other methods such as division or layering might also be viable options. Division is particularly suitable for plants that form dense clumps or have spreading root systems, while layering can be used for species with trailing or flexible stems.

Division can be done in early spring.

  1. Divide clumps
  2. Replant immediately

Pests & Diseases

Generally resistant to major pests.

While generally resilient, maintaining optimal growing conditions is the best defense against pests and diseases. Regular monitoring allows for early detection of any issues, which can often be managed through cultural practices or organic interventions. Ensuring good air circulation and appropriate watering will significantly reduce the plant's susceptibility to common environmental stresses and pathogens.

Cultural Significance

Nestegis cunninghamii , commonly known as black maire, holds significant cultural importance, particularly for Māori in New Zealand. Its dense and durable timber was highly valued and utilized for a variety of purposes.Tool and Weapon Construction:Māori extensively used black maire for making tools and weapons. This included wedges for splitting wood, k (digging sticks), canoe paddles and bailers, beaters, mallets, and thin, double-pointed spears. Certain weapons like wahaika were also crafted from its roots.Construction and Domestic Uses:The timber was used for beams in storage houses and for constructing pā (fortified villages) stockades due to its durability and resistance to fire. It was also favoured as a block when cutting greenstone and sometimes used as weights on drill shafts. For domestic purposes, all species of maire were used to make smokeless and long-lasting torches for lighting houses.Other Implements:Black maire was used for wooden spades, various digging sticks (hoto, kō, kaheru, pere, tipi), and even for making rōria (jew's harp). Historical records also indicate its use for making toboggans and occasionally pāhū (gongs).European Uses:Early European settlers also recognized the value of black maire timber, using it for caulking mallets, mauls, wheel or shaft bearings, and as framing for railway carriages, fencing, and bridge building materials. It was also used in cabinet making and turnery.Firewood:Black maire is considered one of the best indigenous timbers for firewood.Modern Uses:In recent years, the limited quantity of black maire available has been used for high-value turnery, such as golf putters and parts for flutes and bagpipes, due to its unique properties.While Māori did not use black maire for medicinal purposes, its timber was highly regarded for its strength and durability. The fruit of the black maire was also eaten by Māori. The tree is considered a culturally significant species that adds both beauty and heritage value to New Zealand landscapes.

  • Traditional medicine
  • Crafts

Bonus Tip

Excellent for low-maintenance gardens.

For an extra boost, consider applying a thin layer of high-quality organic mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually improves soil structure as it breaks down. This simple step can make a significant difference in the plant's overall vigor and resilience, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Plant Conservation

Conservation Status

Nestegis cunninghamii , commonly known as black maire, is classified as "Not Threatened" in New Zealand. Despite its decline in numbers due to historical logging for its valuable timber and use as firewood, it is not currently considered threatened in its native New Zealand.Black maire is endemic to New Zealand, found on the North, South, Hauturu (Little Barrier), and Aotea (Great Barrier) Islands. It is now most commonly observed in the main Axial Ranges and Central Volcanic Plateau of the North Island.