Top 20 Most Common Plants in New Zealand

Img leaf left

Img leaf right

Top 20 Most Common Plants in New Zealand

In New Zealand, you can find Swiss cheese plant, Whiteywood, Large coprosma, Golden pothos, Small-leaf spiderwort, and more! There are 20 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

Most Common Plants

Swiss cheese plant

1. Swiss cheese plant

The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.

Whiteywood

Whiteywood (Melicytus ramiflorus) is a small tree that is a member of the violet family and is native to New Zealand’s lowlands and coastal regions. It has grayish-white bark that is green underneath, and its greenish-yellow flowers mature into vibrant purple berries.

Large coprosma

3. Large coprosma

Large coprosma (Coprosma robusta) is a flowering plant species native to New Zealand. This species can withstand a wide variety of climates and produces edible fruits. Large coprosma can be wiped out by mammals such as goats. This species is used for food, to make dyes, and in symbolic Baptist religious ceremonies.

Your Essential Companion for Global Plant Exploration

From American natives to Philippine tropics, discover plants worldwide with our app.

Download the App for Free

Golden pothos

4. Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Small-leaf spiderwort

5. Small-leaf spiderwort

Tradescantia fluminensis is a ground cover plant that is most commonly found as a houseplant. This plant has oval leaves that are dark green and glossy. It will root anywhere a node is on the surface, which earns it some of its other common names, like wandering Willie and wandering gypsy.

Nikau palm

Nikau palm (Rhopalostylis sapida) is a palm tree species native to New Zealand. Portions of the nikau palm leaves and flowers are edible, raw or cooked. The indigenous Māori people of New Zealand wrap food in its leaves for cooking. The palm leaves can also be utilized in thatching huts and buildings, as well as making floor mats.

Silver inch plant

7. Silver inch plant

The silver inch plant is a popular trailing plant known for its attractive foliage with zebra-like stripes of green, silver, and purple. Tradescantia zebrina is very easy to care for and can be hung or placed indoors. The plant grows fast; the creeping stems bear roots along the way, making it suitable as ground cover.

Red maple

Red maple is a small shrub or tree that sometimes can bear flowers and fruit at the same time. It is an endemic species to New Zealand, and it can adapt to various growing conditions. The common blackbird consumes the fruit of red maple and disposes of the seed, which can stay dormant for a year or even more.

Silver tree-fern

9. Silver tree-fern

Silver tree-fern (Alsophila dealbata) is a standout fern named for the unusual silvery underside of its fronds. This silver color makes the fern a useful plant to grow beside walking tracks to help people find the path. Silver tree-fern features on the New Zealand coat of arms. Several British army units wear this fern, and it is also the logo of the New Zealand Labour party.

New Zealand bottlebrush

10. New Zealand bottlebrush

New Zealand bottlebrush (Knightia excelsa) is a member of the protea family and native to New Zealand. It looks good planted as a specimen tree or in a group. The flowers produce abundant nectar for honey bees and birds. Its timber has an attractive grain for ornamental projects and musical instruments but is difficult to work and season.

Cabbage tree

11. Cabbage tree

Cabbage tree (*Cordyline australis*) is a subtropical palm-like tree that thrives in environments with fertile, well-drained soil. Salt and drought tolerant, they are ideal for sunny borders or containers. The cabbage tree blooms in late spring to early summer with small, fragrant white flowers. It's not an unusual sight in city courtyards and coastal gardens.

Arrowhead plant

12. Arrowhead plant

Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum) is a beautiful foliage plant, one of the most popular species of the Araceae family. Due to its air purifying qualities and good looks, arrowhead plant is often cultivated as a houseplant. Every part of this plant is toxic, so it's best to keep it away from kids and pets.

New Zealand broadleaf

13. New Zealand broadleaf

Griselinia littoralis, or new Zealand broadleaf, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or a small tree native to New Zealand. The leaves are green and oval, and its flowers are also greenish, small, and inconspicuous.

Flamingo flower

14. Flamingo flower

Flamingo flower (Anthurium andraeanum) is an ornamental perennial plant, famous for its pink or bright red heart-shaped flowers with very prominent pistils. Aside from its decorative attributes, flamingo flower is said to have excellent air-purifying properties.

Pigeon wood

15. Pigeon wood

Pigeon wood (Hedycarya arborea) has the Latin name arborea, which means tree-like, which is quite appropriate, since it is a tree. Its red berries are eaten only in times of food scarcity by the New Zealand wood pigeon, or kereru (Hemiphaga novaezelandiae).

Broom tea-tree

16. Broom tea-tree

Broom tea-tree (Leptospermum scoparium) is an upright evergreen shrub that blooms with showy white, pink, or red flowers. The flowers eventually fall off and are replaced by seed capsules. Broom tea-tree wood is regularly used in tool handles and when burnt can imbue meat with a pleasant smoky flavor.

Red pine

A very common and widespread tree of New Zealand, red pine was once the main source of wood within its native range. Historically, it was used for construction and furniture, but now it's mainly used for ornamental purposes. One of the most ancient trees in New Zealand, the oldest specimen recorded is said to be 800 years old.

Japanese camellia

18. Japanese camellia

The japanese camellia is a small tree or shrub with glossy green leaves and showy white, pink or red flowers. Native to Japan, it has since spread around the world and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant, even becoming the official state flower of the U.S. state of Alabama. In China, it is considered a symbol of good luck and is a staple of many New Year's celebrations.

Pohutukawa

Another name for pohutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) is an evergreen tree native to New Zealand with showy flowers that look like crimson bottlebrushes. If you take good care of it, this tree will last ten years.

Karo

Karo (Pittosporum crassifolium) is a species of shrub or small tree that is native to the lowlands and coastal forests of northern New Zealand. In summer and fall it produces fruit that is attractive to both native and exotic birds; these birds then disperse the seeds sometimes far south of the plant’s original range.

Discover 4 Exciting Reasons to Choose PictureThis

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Identify toxic plants around you

Easily find your perfect green friends

Get full care tips and tricks for your plants

Download the App for Free

Oceania > New Zealand

Manawatu-Wanganui

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

More Plants in New Zealand

Mask group

Most Common Toxic Plants

New Zealand's environment, with its diverse range of climates and fertile soils, is conducive to the growth of both native and introduced plants, including those that are toxic. High rainfall, ample sunshine, and rich biodiversity offer ideal conditions for the proliferation of species such as , , and , posing potential risks to humans, livestock, and wildlife. Acknowledging such threats is essential for maintaining New Zealand's balance between natural beauty and public safety.

Mask group

Most Common Flowers

New Zealand's climate and soil provide optimal conditions for the growth of native flowers. The region is known for its resplendent blooms, including , , and . These flowers add visual beauty to the environment and hold great ecological importance. Their symbolism contributes to the cultural heritage of New Zealand. Reliable sources confirm the authenticity of this information.

Mask group

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As New Zealand's landscapes awake from winter's slumber, Spring unfurls with a palette of vibrant flowers. The first blossoms of signal the season's gentle beginnings, while the iconic erupts in bold hues, symbolizing life's renewal. Not to be outshone, adds its unique charm, illustrating the region's diverse flora. Together, these blooms exemplify Spring's rejuvenation, inviting nature's resurgence across the country.

Mask group

Most Common Spring Fruits

Embraced by the mild maritime climate, Spring in New Zealand unfurls a spectacle of blossoming flora and chirping songbirds, offering a nurturing canvas for fruit plants. The season is a time of abundance, with , , and among the fruits reaching harvest. Their freshness not only signifies the fertility of the lands but also marks the beginning of a vibrant local gastronomy season.

Mask group

Most Common Fruits

New Zealand's temperate climate and fertile soils create an ideal setting for a variety of local fruit plants. The nation's varying regions, from coastal areas to inland valleys, offer a unique mix of environmental conditions tailored for optimal fruit production. Highly significant plants, such as , , and , not only contribute to the local diets but also hold cultural resonance among communities. These fruit plants symbolize the rich agricultural heritage and biodiversity of the country.

Mask group

Most Common Trees

New Zealand's climate and soil conditions foster the growth of diverse native trees. Three emblematic trees in this region include , , and . These trees hold significant cultural and ecological value within the territory. Their presence helps sustain the unique biodiversity of New Zealand and contributes to the country's rich heritage.

Mask group

Most Common Weeds

New Zealand's mild climate and fertile soils create a haven for a variety of garden weeds, contributing to an ongoing battle for gardeners. Among the most common invaders are , which is notorious for its aggressive spread, , often outcompeting native plants, and , which poses a challenge due to its resilience. These weeds exemplify the tenacity and adaptability that make managing New Zealand gardens a considerable task.

Mask group

Most Common Tall Trees

Nestled amid temperate climate and diverse terrains, New Zealand is conducive to the growth of lofty tree species that dominate the skyline. Among these giants, is renowned for its majestic height, while stands as a monumental figure in indigenous forests. Not to be overshadowed, contributes significantly to the towering arboreal tapestry, each species a testament to the ecological richness and the historical tapestry of the land.

Mask group

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in New Zealand brings forth an ethereal and frosty landscape, but amidst the cold, certain flowers boldly bloom, defying expectations. Among these resilient blossoms are , , and . These flowers showcase the captivating beauty and symbolic depth of nature, reminding us that even in the harshest conditions, life can flourish.

Copyright © Glority LLC Limited. All Rights Reserved.