Karaka Tree

Karaka Tree Information

Are Karaka Fast Growing?

Karaka trees are fast growing and can reach four metres tall in just five years. They are native to NZ and are known for their glossy foliage and orange fruit. The fruit is edible but must be cooked thoroughly before eating.

Are Karaka Trees Native To NZ?

Karaka trees are native to New Zealand. They're a beautiful and culturally significant part of the country's flora, with a fascinating history and unique role in the ecosystem. They belong to the genus Corynocarpus, and all five species within this genus are found only in New Zealand and its surrounding islands like the Kermadecs and Chathams. This means they evolved and exist naturally nowhere else on Earth, making them truly endemic to the region.

Benefits Of Growing Karaka Trees

Growing colourful NZ-native plants such as Karaka trees in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They can be used to provide shade, screening, and shelter.
• They attract birds.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

The Plant Company has a large variety of Karaka plants, and we have the right one for your space! If you are wanting to buy Karaka trees, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Did Maori Eat Karaka Berries?

Māori traditionally ate karaka berries, and they were actually a staple food source for many communities! While the raw berries are poisonous due to a toxin called karakin, Māori developed ingenious methods to process them into a safe and nutritious food. The steps are as follows:

The ripe berries, called koroi or kopi, were collected around March to April. They are soaked in water, sometimes for weeks, to leach out the karakin. Water changes were frequent, especially over the first few days. After soaking, the berries were steamed, roasted, or baked in an umu (earth oven). This further neutralized the toxins and made the kernels edible. The processed kernels, called piko, could be kept for months or even years by drying them in the sun.

Karaka piko was a versatile food. They could be eaten plain, ground into flour, or mixed with other ingredients to make various dishes.

How Do You Grow A Karaka Tree?

To grow a Karaka Tree from seed, it is important that the seed is fresh (ideally less than 12 months old). Soak the seeds in water overnight, then plant in a well-drained potting mix, about 20 mm deep. Water the seeds regularly and keep them in a warm, sunny spot. They should germinate within 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings are about 10 cm tall, transplant them into individual pots or into the ground.

How To Plant A Karaka Tree

Planting a karaka tree can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to do it right to ensure its success. Here's a quick guide:

• Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil. They can tolerate partial shade if needs must. Avoid areas with strong winds or frost pockets, as young trees can be damaged.
• Dig the hole about twice the diameter and depth of the pot or root ball. Mix some compost into the bottom of the hole.
• Place the karaka in the hole and ensure the top of the root ball sits slightly above the ground level. Backfill the hole with the mixed soil, gently firming it in to remove air pockets.
• Water the tree well immediately after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during dry periods. The first year is crucial for establishing the root system, so consistent moisture is essential.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• If necessary, use a sturdy stake to provide support for the tree until its roots are established. Be sure to remove the stake after a year or two.

Is Karaka Fruit Edible?

The flesh of the fruit from the Karaka tree is edible, but the seeds are highly poisonous to humans. The seeds contain a toxin called karakin, which can cause serious illness or death if ingested. Traditionally, Māori people would prepare the karaka seeds for consumption by steaming them in earth ovens (umu) to detoxify them. This process would destroy the karakin toxin, making the seeds safe to eat. However, it's important to note that without proper preparation, karaka seeds are extremely dangerous to consume.

Is Karaka Poisonous To Humans?

Yes, karaka is poisonous to humans. The Karaka Tree produces fruit that are edible for some birds, but that same fruit contains a toxic substance called karakin that is poisonous to humans. The toxin is concentrated in the seeds of the fruit and can cause serious illness or even death if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and coma. If you suspect someone has ingested karaka fruit or seeds, seek medical attention immediately.

Karaka Berry Tree

The Karaka Berry tree is (Corynocarpus laevigatus). It's important to remember that while the flesh of the fruit is edible, the seeds are highly poisonous and should not be consumed without proper preparation.

Karaka Tree Berries

Karaka tree berries are the fruit of the Karaka tree, a native New Zealand tree. The berries are oval-shaped and turn bright orange when ripe. The flesh of the berry is edible, but the seeds are highly poisonous to humans. The seeds contain a toxin called karakin, which can cause serious illness or death if ingested. That said, Karaka berries are a valuable food source for native New Zealand birds, particularly the kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon).

NZ Native Tree With Orange Berries

The New Zealand native tree with orange berries is the Karaka (Corynocarpus laevigatus).

What Is The Meaning Of Karaka?

The word "Karaka" has a few different meanings depending on the context in which it is used:

• Karaka is the Māori word for "orange".
• The Karaka tree (Corynocarpus laevigatus) is known for its distinctive orange-coloured fruit.
• In Sanskrit, "Karaka" refers to a celestial object or influence, often associated with planets and their effects on human life.

It's important to note that the specific meaning of "Karaka" will depend on the language and context in which it is used.

Where Are Karaka Trees Found In NZ?

Most botanists believe karaka trees were originally native only to the northern half of the North Island. However, due to its cultural significance and use as a food source, Māori planted it near villages throughout the North and South Islands. This makes its precise indigenous distribution uncertain.

You can find karaka trees naturally occurring in many coastal areas of both the North and South Islands, as far south as Banks Peninsula and Okarito. It's common on the Three Kings Islands, Raoul Island in the Kermadecs, and the Chatham Islands. They thrive in coastal situations, often forming a major component of coastal forests. While it rarely dominates, you might also find it inland, especially near remnants of Māori settlements.