Horopito (Pseudowintera colorata)
Pseudowintera colorata
Pseudowintera colorata, commonly known as Horopito or New Zealand Pepper Tree, is a distinctive native shrub renowned for its peppery-tasting leaves and striking red-mottled foliage. This hardy evergreen has been used traditionally by Māori for its medicinal properties and continues to be valued both for its ornamental appeal and its cultural significance. The plant's natural defense compounds make it resistant to browsing and give it its characteristic hot taste. native trees
Image credit: Horopito (Pseudowintera colorata). Wikipedia
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pseudowintera colorata |
|---|---|
| Height | 1–2.5 m |
| Spread | 1–2 m |
| Water Needs | Moderate (moist, well-drained soil) |
| Light | Partial shade (tolerates full sun in cool climates) |
| Frost Tolerance | High (tolerates frost and occasional snow) |
| Salt Tolerance | Low |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived shrub |
Climate Suitability
| City | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Good |
| Auckland | Good |
| Hamilton | Good |
| Tauranga | Good |
| Rotorua | Excellent |
| Gisborne | Good |
| New Plymouth | Good |
| Napier | Good |
| Whanganui | Good |
| Palmerston North | Excellent |
| Wellington | Excellent |
| Nelson | Excellent |
| Christchurch | Excellent |
| Dunedin | Good |
| Invercargill | Good |
Growing
- Thrives in moist, well-drained, acidic soils
- Prefers partial shade but tolerates full sun in cooler regions
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Water regularly during establishment
Uses
- Ornamental shrub for gardens and landscaping
- Leaves used as a spicy culinary herb (bush pepper)
- Traditional Māori uses include medicinal applications
Seasonal Care
- Spring: Prune to shape and encourage new growth
- Summer: Water during dry spells; mulch to retain moisture
- Autumn: Tidy up fallen leaves
- Winter: Protect young plants from heavy frost
Pruning
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and size
- Remove dead or damaged branches as needed
Planting Guide
- Choose a partially shaded site with moist, acidic soil
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball
- Mix compost or peat into the soil
- Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container
- Water well and mulch around the base
Propagation
- Seed: Sow fresh seed in moist, acidic mix; germination can be slow
- Cuttings: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer; use rooting hormone for best results
Cultural History
Pseudowintera colorata is known as "horopito" in te reo Māori. It is valued for its medicinal properties and spicy leaves, which were used to treat various ailments. Horopito features in traditional stories and is an important plant in Māori herbal medicine (rongoā).
Pests & Diseases
- Generally hardy, but can be affected by scale insects and leaf spot
- Root rot possible in poorly drained soils
- Monitor for signs of disease and treat promptly
Bonus Tip
Plant horopito in a woodland garden or as an understorey shrub for year-round interest. The colorful, peppery leaves add both beauty and flavor to your landscape and kitchen.
