Supplejack
Ripogonum scandens
Introduction
Introduction Overview
Ripogonum scandens , or supplejack, is a vigorous native vine found in New Zealand forests . Its wiry stems and glossy leaves provide habitat for birds and invertebrates, while its bright red berries are a key food source for native pigeons and tūū. Supplejack is valued for its ecological role and traditional Mori uses. Learn more about New Zealand native vines .
Plant Description
Botanical Features
Supplejack (Ripogonum scandens), also known as kareao or pirita, is a woody, evergreen, twining forest liane endemic to New Zealand. It is a vigorous native vine found in New Zealand's lowland forests. It is a climbing vine or liana that coils its hard, flexible stems around tree trunks and branches for support. In the absence of support, it can form dense, knotted tangles on the forest floor. Young plants may resemble small shrubs before their stems begin to spiral. The tips of the vines can grow rapidly, up to 5 cm per day, allowing them to reach high into the forest canopy. It has two types of stems. Twining stems grow upwards from a stout, woody rhizome, are several meters long, almost black, and have sheathing scale leaves. Non-twining stems, which arise in full light, are more branched, light brown, and bear green leaves and inflorescences. The leaves are mostly opposite, green, dark green, or yellow-green, and are somewhat leathery (coriaceous). They are typically narrow-ovate to oblong with entire, often undulate margins. The inflorescences are axillary or terminal, and can be simple or comāpound. The flowers are not crowded, with minute, free, spreading green (often hyaline green) tepals. The fruit is a globose, bright red berry, about 10-15 mm in diameter, containing 1-3 hard, spotted seeds. These berries are a significant food source for native birds like pigeons and tūū.
Quick Facts
Quick Facts Overview
| Scientific Name | Ripogonum scandens |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 10 m (as a climber) |
| Spread | 2-4 m or more (sprawling/climbing) |
| Water Needs | Moderate (moist, well-drained soil) |
| Light | Partial to full shade |
| Frost Tolerance | Moderate (protect young plants from heavy frost) |
| Salt Tolerance | Low |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Best Suited to
Ripogonum is native to New Zealand and thrives in the country's diverse climate conditions. It adapts well to various regional climates throughout the country.
Regional Suitability
| 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 |
Natural Habitat
Supplejack (Ripogonum scandens), also known as kareao or pirita, is a vigorous woody, evergreen, twining forest liane endemic to New Zealand. Its natural habitat spans both the North and South Islands, as well as offshore islands like Stewart and Chatham Islands.
Key Habitats Include:
- Lowland and Montane Forests: It is primarily found in lowland and mountainous forests, often dominated by hardwood and podocarp trees. It can thrive at altitudes up to 900 meters in the North Island.
- Coastal Forests and Swampy Areas: Supplejack is common in old coastal forests and relics of ancient forests. It can also be found in swampy areas where the soil may be periodically flooded, showcasing its tolerance for moist conditions.
- Karst Regions: It frequently grows in karst regions, often found in dolines, tomos, and cave entrances, indicating its adaptability to rocky and limestone environments.
Preferred Conditions:
- Soil: It adapts to various soil types, including red-brown loams, pumice, yellow-brown, and alluvial soils, preferring well-draining soil with good organic content.
- Light: The plant is well-suited to New Zealand's temperate climate, tolerating both warm summers and cool winters, and grows best in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade.
- Climbing Habit: As a climbing liana, it uses its flexible stems to coil around trees, ascending into the forest canopy to reach sunlight, or forming dense tangles on the forest floor if no support is available.
The widespread presence and vigorous growth of Ripogonum scandens underscore its ecological importance in contributing to the biodiversity and structural complexity of New Zealand's native forests.
Plant Conservation
Supplejack (Ripogonum scandens) is widespread in lowland and montane forests throughout Aotearoa and is assessed as Not Threatened. While the liane itself is resilient, local pressures - such as forest clearance, edge drying, and browsing of flowers and fruit by possums and rats - can reduce seed set and recruitment. Conservation priorities emphasise protecting contiguous native forest, ongoing pest control to allow fruiting and dispersal by birds, and retaining understorey structure where its scrambling stems naturally weave through shrubs and young trees.
Soil Requirements
Ripogonum prefers well-draining soil with good organic content. It can adapt to various soil types but performs best in loamy or sandy soils.
Water Needs
Ripogonum requires moderate watering, especially during establishment. Once established , it becomes more drought-tolerant.
Light Requirements
Ripogonum grows best in full sun to partial shade, depending on the specific species and local climate conditions.
Temperature
Ripogonum is well-adapted to New Zealand's temperate climate and can tolerate both warm summers and cool winters.
Planting Guide
When to Plant
The best time to plant Ripogonum is during spring or autumn when soil temperatures are moderate and rainfall is reliable.
How to Plant
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and slightly deeper. Place Ripogonum in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Ecological Role
Wildlife Interactions
Supplejack plays a crucial role in New Zealand's forest ecosystems as a climbing vine that creates vertical habitat complexity. Its dense growth provides nesting sites and shelter for native birds like tūū, bellbirds, and kererū. The bright red berries are an important food source, particularly in winter when other food is scarce. The plant 's extensive root system helps stabilize soil on steep slopes and forest edges, preventing erosion in vulnerable areas.
Uses and Applications
Ripogonum has various practical and ornamental uses. From traditional Mori applications to modern landscaping, this versatile plant serves multiple purposes.
Traditional Uses
Historically, Ripogonum was used by Mori for medicinal purposes, food, and cultural practices. These traditional uses reflect the deep knowledge of native plants.
Landscaping Uses
Landscaping Uses Overview
Supplejack is ideal for creating natural screens, covering unsightly structures, or adding vertical interest to large gardens. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it perfect for covering pergolas, arbors, or large trellises. In forest restoration projects, it provides quick coverage and habitat for wildlife. The plant 's orange-brown stems add winter interest, while its glossy leaves create a lush green backdrop in summer.
Seasonal Care
Spring
Spring is the ideal time to plant Ripogonum as the soil warms and new growth begins. Water regularly to establish roots and apply a light mulch to retain moisture.
Summer
During summer , Ripogonum may require additional watering during dry spells. Monitor for pests and provide shade if needed in hot climates.
Autumn
Autumn is perfect for transplanting Ripogonum as the cooler temperatures reduce stress. Reduce watering as growth slows.
Winter
Winter care for Ripogonum involves minimal maintenance. Protect from severe frosts if necessary and avoid overwatering.
- Plant near climbing supports
- Apply light mulch
- Water regularly to establish roots
- Monitor for drought stress
- Provide shade in hot climates
- Check for pest infestations
- Transplant established plants
- Reduce watering as growth slows
- Collect seeds for propagation
- Protect from severe frosts
- Avoid overwatering
- Minimal maintenance required
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Regular pruning of Ripogonum helps maintain its health and desired shape. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of pest and disease problems.
For most native plants, light pruning throughout the growing season is better than heavy pruning at once. This approach encourages healthy new growth while maintaining the plant's natural form and character.
- Prune to control size and remove dead stems
- Train on trellises or supports as needed
How to Grow Supplejack
Supplejack, also known as Kareao, is a vigorous native vine found in New Zealand forests. Its wiry stems and glossy leaves provide habitat for birds and invertebrates, while its bright red berries are a key food source for native pigeons and tūū. Supplejack is valued for its ecological role and traditional Mori uses. Understanding its propagation methods is key to successfully growing this unique species.
From Seed
Propagating Supplejack from fresh seed is a viable method, though germination can be slow and may require stratification. Collect ripe berries in late autumn or early winter. Clean the seeds thoroughly to remove any fleshy pulp. Sow the seeds in a tray filled with a well-draining seed-raising mix, lightly covering them. The seeds typically require a period of cold stratification (e.g., refrigerate for 2-3 months) to break dormancy. Maintain consistent moisture in the seed tray and keep it in a warm, sheltered location. Germination can take several weeks to months after stratification. Once seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be potted into individual containers and grown in a sheltered environment before planting out.
From Cuttings
Semi-hardwood cuttings are a reliable method for propagating Supplejack, ensuring that new plants retain the exact characteristics of the parent. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy, semi-hardwood stems in late summer or early autumn. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Insert the cuttings into a well-draining propagation mix (e.g., sand and perlite). Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment, out of direct sunlight, perhaps under a plastic dome or in a propagator. Rooting typically occurs within 8-12 weeks. Once rooted, the new plants can be potted on and grown in a sheltered environment until they are ready for planting.
Pests and Diseases
Common Pests
Ripogonum is generally resistant to most pests due to its native adaptations. However, it may occasionally be affected by common garden pests such as aphids or scale insects.
Disease Prevention
To prevent diseases, ensure good air circulation around Ripogonum and avoid overwatering. Remove any diseased plant material promptly to prevent spread.
Cultural Significance
Ripogonum scandens, commonly known as supplejack or kareao, holds significant cultural importance, particularly for the Māori people of New Zealand. Its uses span medicinal, nutritional, and practical applications, and it features in Māori mythology. The plant was a vital component of traditional Māori medicine (Rongoā Māori). Infusions made from the supplejack root were used to treat a variety of ailments, including blood disorders, skin diseases, rheumatism, fever, bowel complaints, and sexually transmitted diseases. Young shoots were consumed to alleviate scabies and itchiness, while sap from broken stems was applied to cuts and grazes. For larger wounds, a piece of dry kareao could be ignited and burned near the cut to cauterize it. Both the berries and young shoots of Ripogonum scandens were utilized as food. The soft, growing shoots, affectionately known as "bush asparagus," were a valued food source, tasting like green beans and providing a thirst-quenching snack. The strong, flexible, and pliant stems of supplejack were highly valued for their utility. Māori used them extensively to construct hinaki (eel traps), crayfish pots, and nets for catching various fish species. The vines were also employed for binding purposes in construction, such as securing fences, houses, canoes, and platforms. Ripogonum scandens is woven into Māori mythological stories, with one tradition linking the vine to Tunaroa, the monstrous eel god.
Bonus Tip
Supplejack (Ripogonum scandens) can be trained as a living weave on sturdy frames. Its baskets of berries feed birds - avoid removing all fruiting stems when tidying so you keep both structure and seasonal colour.
