Pittosporum eugenioides native plants index
Tarata (scientific name: Pittosporum eugenioides) Tarata, also known as Lemonwood, is a fragrant native tree with distinctive yellow‑green leaves and highly scented cream flowers. Its lemony foliage fragrance and attractive form make it a popular choice for hedging, screening, and garden features throughout New Zealand. Explore more in the native plants index.
| Scientific Name | Pittosporum eugenioides |
|---|---|
| Height | 8-12 m |
| Spread | 4-5 m |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Good |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to fast |
| 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 |
Tarata is remarkably adaptable and tolerates most soil conditions, even growing well in poor soils. It prefers well‑drained soils but is quite forgiving and hardy in various conditions from coastal to montane situations.
Tarata performs best in full sun but tolerates partial shade well. It naturally occurs in forest regeneration areas and margins where light conditions can be variable throughout the day.
Tarata has moderate water needs and benefits from regular watering during summer, especially when establishing. Once established, it shows good drought resistance typical of pittosporums.
Tarata provides important habitat for native birds and insects, with its highly fragrant flowers attracting nectar‑loving species. The tree is common in regenerating forests and plays a key role in natural forest succession from coastal to montane areas.
Tarata holds significant cultural importance for Māori, who traditionally used the aromatic gum and crushed leaves and flowers for perfume and hair oils. The strong lemony scent when leaves are crushed made it valuable for traditional scent‑making, usually mixed with plant oils.
Tarata is highly valued in cultivation for its fragrant foliage, attractive flowers, and versatility. It makes an excellent screening plant, shelter tree, or specimen, and is commonly available in both natural and variegated forms from garden centers.
Spring is the ideal planting season for Tarata and also when flowering begins. The first feeds with tree and shrub fertilizer should be applied as new growth starts, and any pruning for shape can be undertaken.
Summer brings peak flowering with highly fragrant cream flowers in terminal sprays. This is when regular watering is most important, especially for establishing trees. Apply the second seasonal fertilizer feed.
Autumn sees the development of distinctive black seed capsules and the end of the growing season. This is an excellent time for seed collection and a second planting opportunity as temperatures moderate.
Winter is the rest period for Tarata, requiring minimal care. The tree is frost‑tolerant and needs little attention during dormancy, making it an excellent low‑maintenance choice.
Tarata responds exceptionally well to pruning, making it ideal for formal hedging and topiary. Regular pruning maintains shape and promotes dense growth, while the tree's hardy nature means it can handle quite severe cutting back if needed.
Tarata, also known as Lemonwood, is a fragrant native tree with distinctive yellow-green leaves and highly scented cream flowers. Its lemony foliage fragrance and attractive form make it a popular choice for hedging, screening, and garden features throughout New Zealand. 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 Tarata from fresh seed is a very easy and effective method, with quick germination typically occurring within a month. Seeds should be collected when the black capsules ripen and sown immediately for best results. Collect seeds when capsules turn black (October-January). Extract seeds from ripe capsules immediately. Sow fresh seeds in a well-draining seed-raising mix without delay. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light for germination. Expect germination within 3-4 weeks. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle.
Semi-hardwood cuttings provide a reliable alternative method, particularly useful for maintaining specific characteristics of cultivars like variegated forms. Take cuttings from current season's growth in summer. Select semi-hardwood material 10-15cm long. Remove lower leaves, keeping top foliage. Dip in rooting hormone for improved success. Plant in a well-draining propagation mix. Maintain humidity with cover or misting. Roots develop within 6-10 weeks. Transplant when a well-rooted system is established.
Plants with similar habit or use can complement Tarata in mixed native plantings and habitat restoration.
Tarata (Pittosporum eugenioides) holds cultural importance in Aotearoa New Zealand through its roles in traditional knowledge and native ecosystems.
