Nīkau and other native palms of Aotearoa
New Zealand is home to a small but iconic group of native palms, most notably the nīkau palm (Rhopalostylis sapida), the world’s southernmost palm species. These palms are found in coastal and lowland forests, adding a subtropical touch to the landscape and providing important habitat for native birds and insects. Learn more about the nīkau palm.
New Zealand’s native palms are a distinctive feature of the country’s flora. The nīkau palm (Rhopalostylis sapida) is the only palm native to mainland New Zealand, while the Chatham Island nīkau (Rhopalostylis sapida var. chathamica) and the Kermadec nīkau (Rhopalostylis baueri) are found on offshore islands. These palms are valued for their elegant form, cultural significance, and ecological role in forest ecosystems.
Rhopalostylis sapida
The only palm native to mainland New Zealand, found in coastal and lowland forests from the north to the south of the country.
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Rhopalostylis sapida
var. chathamica
A variety of nīkau palm found on the Chatham Islands, with broader leaflets and a more robust form.
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Rhopalostylis baueri
Native to the Kermadec Islands, this palm is similar to the mainland nīkau but grows taller and has larger fruit.
Learn moreNīkau palms are slow-growing but rewarding, adding a tropical look to gardens. They prefer sheltered, frost-free sites with good moisture and rich soil. Protect young plants from frost and strong winds. Mulch and regular watering help establish healthy growth.
Native palms are found in mild, frost-free regions of New Zealand, especially in coastal and lowland forests. They thrive in areas with good rainfall and protection from cold winds.
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Ideal |
| Hamilton | Ideal |
| Tauranga | Ideal |
| Rotorua | Moderate |
| Gisborne | Ideal |
| New Plymouth | Ideal |
| Napier | Ideal |
| Whanganui | Ideal |
| Palmerston North | Ideal |
| Wellington | Ideal |
| Nelson | Ideal |
| Christchurch | Marginal |
| Dunedin | Marginal |
| Invercargill | Marginal |
| Auckland | Ideal |
Nīkau palms prefer rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Avoid waterlogged or very dry sites.
Best in partial shade to full sun, with protection from harsh winds and frost.
Regular watering is important for young palms. Once established, they are moderately drought-tolerant but benefit from consistent moisture.
Native palms are frost-tender when young. Protect from frost in colder regions.
Remove old or damaged fronds as needed. Minimal pruning required for healthy palms.
Best planted in spring or autumn when soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
Choose a sheltered site with good light and well-draining soil.
Water regularly during establishment. Protect from frost and strong winds.
Collect ripe fruit in late summer or autumn. Clean and sow seed in free-draining mix. Germination can be slow and erratic.
Some palms produce offsets or suckers that can be separated and grown on.
Nīkau palms are significant in Māori culture, used for food, weaving, and building. The leaves were used for thatching and weaving, while the young shoots and berries were eaten. The palm is a symbol of the subtropical forests of Aotearoa.
Use nīkau palms to create a lush, subtropical look in your garden. Plant in groups for best effect and combine with ferns and other native species.
Learn more about the cultural significance of native palms in Cultural Plants.