New Zealand broadleaf - Griselinia littoralis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

New Zealand broadleaf

Also known as: Kapuka

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.

Scientific classification

Species

New Zealand broadleaf (Griselinia littoralis)

Carrots, ivies and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

3 m

Plant Height

3 m

Spread

Green, White

Leaf Color

Purple

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Images of New Zealand broadleaf

Distribution of New Zealand broadleaf

Distribution Map

New Zealand broadleaf is native to the coastal regions of a major South Pacific nation, thriving particularly in forest and scrub areas. This plant has been introduced and cultivated in a prominent Western European region, where it has adapted to the temperate climate and is commonly used in ornamental horticulture.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Lowland to montane forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of New Zealand broadleaf, including the following common varieties :

New Zealand broadleaf 'Variegata'

Quickly Identify New Zealand broadleaf

Thick, glossy, leathery leaves around 4 inches (10 cm) long.

Dioecious with separate male and female flowers on different plants.

Adapts well to coastal full sun to light shade environments.

Roundish foliage with a glossy green sheen.

Susceptible to hot, dry climates despite tolerating seaside and windy conditions.

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Care Guide for New Zealand broadleaf

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: New Zealand broadleaf thrives in moderate humidity and tolerates brief droughts. It requires consistent soil moisture without waterlogging, with watering every 2-3 weeks. Best grown outdoors, new Zealand broadleaf prefers well-draining soil that replicates its native coastal habitat.

Fertilize: Fertilize new Zealand broadleaf with balanced nutrition during spring and summer, using high nitrogen fertilizers sparingly at earlier growth stages. Avoid fertilization in winter. Apply diluted fertilizer monthly and adjust based on the plant's life stage; water before and after to reduce root shock.

Pruning: New Zealand broadleaf features glossy, leathery leaves and a dense growth habit. Prune in early to late winter to maintain shape, focusing on thinning crowded branches and removing dead wood. Use clean, sharp tools for healthier growth while preserving natural form.

Propagation: To propagate new Zealand broadleaf, use semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy, pencil-thick stems. Apply rooting hormone if desired, and plant in well-draining soil with high humidity and indirect sunlight. Mist regularly to maintain moisture. Once rooted, gradually acclimate to normal growth conditions.

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