<i>Pittosporum eugenioides</i>(Pittosporum eugenioides) hero image

Tarata

Pittosporum eugenioides

Not specified

This native plant, known as Tarata (scientific name: Pittosporum eugenioides ), 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>Pittosporum eugenioides</i>(Pittosporum eugenioides) showing <i>Pittosporum eugenioides</i>growth habit
Image credit: Tarata ( Pittosporum eugenioides ) - Photo via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Identification and Physical Characteristics

Tarata ( Pittosporum eugenioides ), also known as lemonwood, is an evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand Discover more about native ferns. It typically grows to 10-12 meters tall and up to 5 meters broad, starting conical when young and becoming more rounded with maturity. Its leaves are a distinctive yellow-green, often mottled with paler green or yellow-green, somewhat leathery, and glossy. They have curly or wavy edges and a prominent pale midrib. When crushed, the leaves emit a strong lemony smell, which is why it's also called lemonwood. The tree produces highly fragrant clusters of attractive yellow-cream flowers in spring (October to December in New Zealand). These flowers are followed by distinctive black, woody seed capsules that split open to reveal black, sticky seeds immersed in a dark yellow viscid pulp. The fruit takes between 12 and 14 months to ripen, so both ripe and unripe fruit can be present on the tree simultaneously.

Quick Facts

Pittosporum eugenioides quick facts
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

Climate Best Suited to

Pittosporum eugenioides is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Pittosporum eugenioides
City Climate Suitability
Auckland High
Wellington High
Christchurch Medium

Plant Habitat

Natural Occurrence and Ecology

Tarata ( Pittosporum eugenioides ), also known as Lemonwood, is an evergreen tree native and endemic to New Zealand, found throughout both the North and South Islands. It is a highly adaptable species, thriving in a variety of habitats from coastal areas to montane situations, at altitudes ranging from sea level up to 600 meters (or sometimes cited as 2,500 feet, approximately 760 meters).Forest Margins and Clearings:Its natural habitat includes forest margins, forest clearings, and stream banks, where it often acts as a pioneer species in regenerating areas.Moist, Well-Drained Soils:Tarata prefers moist, fertile, and well-drained soils, but it is remarkably adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil types.Light Conditions:It grows well in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile for various positions within its natural environment.Widespread:Its widespread distribution across both major islands of New Zealand highlights its ecological flexibility and ability to adapt to diverse climatic conditions.Coastal to Montane:It is a common component of regenerating and mature forests, from coastal areas where it tolerates some exposure to montane regions.The presence of Pittosporum eugenioides in these diverse habitats underscores its ecological flexibility and its role in contributing to the biodiversity of New Zealand's native forests.

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 Pittosporum eugenioides 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 Tarata

Cultivating Pittosporum eugenioides ( Pittosporum eugenioides ) 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 Pittosporum eugenioides 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 Pittosporum eugenioides , 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

Tarata ( Pittosporum eugenioides ), also known as Lemonwood, holds significant cultural value, particularly in Māori culture in New Zealand.Scent and Perfume:Māori traditionally used the crushed leaves and flowers, along with the gum from the tree, for scent. These were often mixed with plant oils like tītoki and kāhia, and bird fat, to create hair oils and perfumes.Oral Hygiene and Glue:The gum from the tarata tree was highly valued. When rolled into a ball and chewed, sometimes mixed with the sap of Pūhā, it was believed to cure bad breath and could last for generations. This gum also served as a type of glue, used to smear over ropes and knots to harden them, and to glue together small musical trumpets made from the wood.Symbol of Heritage:Beyond its practical applications, Pittosporum eugenioides symbolizes heritage and a deep connection to the land, especially in regions where it is endemic, such as Canterbury.In modern contexts, while still appreciated for its cultural ties, it is also valued for its aesthetic appeal in landscaping and its role in conservation and restoration efforts due to its resilience and ability to establish a quick canopy.

  • 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

Pittosporum eugenioides , also known as tarata or lemonwood, is an evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand. It is common in both the North and South Islands, found in regenerating and mature forests, coastal areas, and montane situations.According to the NZPCN, the conservation status of Pittosporum eugenioides was reassessed in 2022-2023 using the New Zealand Threat Classification System (NZTCS). While the specific current conservation status isn't explicitly stated as "threatened" or "endangered" across sources, it is described as a "common tree" and "endemic" to New Zealand. Other sources indicate it is "Conservation Significant: No" in Queensland, Australia, where it is an exotic species. The IUCN Red List status is not explicitly listed in summary sources.Given its widespread distribution and commonality, it is generally considered "Not Threatened" in New Zealand.