Pittosporum colensoi native plants index
Rautāwhiri (scientific name: Pittosporum colensoi) Rautāwhiri is a distinctive native pittosporum with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and dark red to purple flowers. It grows in montane and subalpine areas, creating an attractive specimen tree with its upright growth habit and striking foliage. Explore more in the native plants index.
| Scientific Name | Pittosporum colensoi |
|---|---|
| Height | 3-6 m |
| Spread | 2-4 m |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Light | Partial shade to full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | Good |
| Salt Tolerance | Poor |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived |
Regional climate suitability across major New Zealand cities.
| City | Climate 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 |
Rautāwhiri prefers freedraining soils rich in organic matter but is remarkably adaptable to most soil types. It naturally occurs on forest margins from lowland to montane areas, favoring damp conditions but not waterlogged soils.
Rautāwhiri grows well in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile for various garden positions. It naturally occurs on forest margins where light conditions vary throughout the day.
Water regularly during establishment, especially in the first year. Once established, Rautāwhiri is relatively droughttolerant but performs best with consistent moisture during dry periods.
Rautāwhiri plays an important role in native forest ecosystems, providing habitat and food sources for native birds and insects. Its dark purple flowers attract pollinators, while the seed capsules provide food for birds when they split to reveal black seeds.
Named in honor of William Colenso, a prominent 19thcentury missionary, botanist, and explorer who contributed significantly to New Zealand's botanical knowledge. The Māori name Rautāwhiri reflects its traditional recognition by indigenous peoples.
Rautāwhiri is excellent for native gardens, hedging, and screening applications. Its moderate growth rate, attractive foliage, and distinctive dark purple flowers make it valuable for both formal and informal landscape designs.
Spring is the ideal planting season for Rautāwhiri, allowing the tree to establish strong roots before summer. This is also when new growth begins and hedging plants may benefit from formative pruning.
Summer requires attention to watering, especially for newly planted trees. The tree is actively growing and may need light shaping. This is also when semihardwood cuttings can be taken for propagation.
Autumn is another good planting season and the time for the final hedge trim of the year. The tree begins to slow its growth as temperatures cool, and fruiting may occur from previous year's flowers.
Winter is the dormant season for Rautāwhiri. Flowering occurs from November to December, making late winter/early spring an exciting time to watch for the distinctive dark purple blooms.
Rautāwhiri requires moderate pruning depending on its intended use. When grown as a hedge, regular trimming is essential for dense growth. As a specimen tree, it needs only light shaping and maintenance pruning.
Pittosporum Colensoi, also known as Rautāwhiri, is a distinctive native pittosporum with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and dark red to purple flowers. It grows in montane and subalpine areas, creating an attractive specimen tree with its upright growth habit and striking foliage. This resilient and ecologically important tree adds a touch of natural elegance and year-round interest to any landscape, showcasing the rich biodiversity of New Zealand's forests. Understanding its propagation methods is key to successfully growing this delightful species.
Propagating Pittosporum Colensoi from fresh seed is a viable method, though the sticky coating around seeds should be removed as it acts as a germination inhibitor. Collect ripe capsules when they split (January-April). Extract black seeds and remove sticky coating thoroughly. Sow fresh seeds immediately in a well-draining seed-raising mix. Maintain consistent moisture in the seed tray and provide bright, indirect light. Germination may be slow, so patience is required. Transplant seedlings once they are large enough to handle.
Semi-hardwood cuttings are a reliable method for propagating Pittosporum Colensoi, ensuring that new plants retain the exact characteristics of the parent. Take 10 cm long cuttings from current season's growth in late summer to early autumn. Select semi-hardwood material (not too soft, not fully hard). Remove lower leaves, keeping 2-3 leaves at the top. Dip in rooting hormone for better success rates. Plant in a well-draining propagation mix. Maintain humidity and provide bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within 6-12 weeks. Avoid water propagation as Pittosporums do not root well in water.
Plants with similar habit or use can complement Pittosporum Colensoi in mixed native plantings and habitat restoration.
Pittosporum Colensoi (Pittosporum colensoi) 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.
