NZ Native Shrubs

New Zealand Native Shrubs

New Zealand's native shrubs are a unique and vital part of its diverse ecosystems. Evolving in isolation, they display remarkable adaptations, from the tangled, divaricating forms of many species, to the vibrant displays of flowers and berries that attract native birds. This series of articles explores New Zealand native shrubs for various situations.

Popular Types of NZ Native Shrubs

New Zealand is home to a myriad of native shrubs, each boasting unique characteristics and serving various purposes. Exploring these plants reveals not only their ecological roles but also their versatility in garden settings.

Low-Growing Native Shrubs

Low-growing native shrubs are ideal for gardeners seeking effective ground cover with minimal maintenance. Some standout options include:

• Coprosma: Celebrated for its vibrant berries and glossy foliage, Coprosma is a robust shrub that thrives in a range of conditions. Its resilience makes it an excellent candidate for coastal gardens where other plants might struggle.
• Hebe: Known for its striking flower spikes and lustrous leaves, Hebe offers numerous varieties that can adapt to sunny, well-drained locations. Its versatility and beauty make it a favourite among gardeners seeking to add color and texture to their landscapes.
• There are a vast number of low-growing NZ native shrubs and if you want to see more, use our plant finder tool. Simply tick the boxes for NZ native, shrubs, the heights of interest, and your location, and options will be presented to you. You can further limit the options by turning on more of the filters.

Native Shrubs for Shade

Gardens with shaded areas can benefit greatly from native shrubs that flourish without direct sunlight. Consider these options:

• Pseudopanax: This shrub is renowned for its exotic foliage and ability to thrive in shaded environments. Its unique appearance adds an intriguing element to shaded garden spaces, making it a valuable addition for those looking to enhance their garden's diversity.
• Griselinia: With its dense, green leaves, Griselinia serves as an excellent choice for creating hedges in shaded areas. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, it offers valuable shelter for local wildlife, further enhancing the ecological value of your garden.
• Kawakawa: Kawakawa, a native New Zealand shrub that thrives in shade. Its heart-shaped leaves are used in traditional medicine for various ailments, and it's also a vital part of Māori customs.
• There are a vast number of NZ native shrubs for shade and if you want to see more, use our plant finder tool. Simply tick the boxes for NZ native, shrubs, the heights of interest, shade, and your location, and options will be presented to you. You can further limit the options by turning on more of the filters.

Flowering Native Shrubs

Adding flowering native shrubs to your garden not only brings vibrant color but also attracts wildlife, enriching your garden's ecosystem. Consider these popular choices:

• Manuka (Leptospermum): Renowned for its delicate white flowers and the prized honey derived from its nectar, Manuka is a hardy shrub capable of thriving in diverse soil conditions. Its resilience and beauty make it a staple in gardens seeking both visual appeal and ecological function.
• Kowhai: Famous for its brilliant yellow blooms, Kowhai is a magnet for native birds such as tui and bellbirds. Its presence in your garden ensures a lively display of avian activity, adding dynamic life to your outdoor space.
• There are a vast number of NZ native flowering shrubs and if you want to see more, use our plant finder tool. Simply tick the boxes for NZ native, shrubs, the heights of interest, and your location, and options will be presented to you. You can further limit the options by turning on more of the filters.

The 20 Most Popular NZ Native Shrubs

NZ native shrubs are incredibly popular and the following plant groups are all widely sold by The Plant Company across New Zealand.

• Coprosma – glossy foliage and suited to coastal gardens, hedges, and mixed plantings.
• Dodonaea – The Ake Ake is widely used as a hedge, in coastal gardens, and also in modern garden styles.
• Leptospermum – The Manuka and the hybrids bring wonderful colour to a garden. They are tough and can tolerate almost all conditions.
• Macropiper – Kawakawa is a shade loving plant that features lush, green foliage.
• Hebes – A popular and colourful plant often used in borders and modern gardens.
• Parahebes – Very similar to Hebes and are low growing.
• Brachyglottis – The Daisy Bush features grey foliage and yellow flowers. This can tolerate most conditions as long as the soil is well-drained.
• Clianthus – Commonly known as Kakabeak, these are colourful plants with lush foliage.
• Corokia – Corokia are a popular hedge plant and can grow almost anywhere!
• Griselinia – These are popular hedge and screening plants that are very popular.
• Pittosporum – The Golf Ball Pittosporums are extremely popular in modern and formal gardens.
• Pseudopanax – These are lush plants that thrive in shade or full sun conditions.
• Pseudowintera – Commonly known as Horopito or pepper plants, they are a colourful and lush plant.
• Kowhai – These yellow flowering shrubs are fantastic for attracting birds into a garden.
• Metrosideros – There are many different types of Pohutukawa plants and they all feature amazing flowers.
• Myoporum – Nagio are a great plant for providing dense screening and attracting native birds.
• Muehlenbeckia – These are perfect as standalone shrubs or as groundcover plants.
• Cordyline – The hybrid cabbage trees being colour and texture to a planting.
• Lophomyrtus – These elegant shrubs produce colour foliage and elegant flowers.
• Olearia – Olearia are hardy shrubs that can cope with almost any environment and position.

The Plant Company has a vast number of NZ native shrubs and if you want to see more, use our plant finder tool. Simply tick the boxes for NZ native, shrubs, the heights of interest, and your location, and options will be presented to you. You can further limit the options by turning on more of the filters.

Growing and Caring for NZ Native Shrubs

Successfully growing native shrubs requires a keen understanding of their specific needs and the environments they thrive in.

Soil and Planting

• Most native shrubs prefer well-drained soil and locations that receive ample sunlight, although some species are more tolerant of shade. When planting, it’s crucial to ensure the soil is loose and free of weeds. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, can significantly enhance soil fertility and soil health which will help the plants grow to their potential.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Young shrubs demand regular watering until they establish a strong root system. Once matured, many native shrubs exhibit remarkable drought tolerance, reducing the need for frequent irrigation. While fertiliser is generally not essential, applying [native plant fertilizer] annually will support vigorous growth and vitality, ensuring your shrubs remain healthy and lush.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning is generally only need to maintain the desired shape of your shrubs but can also be used to encourage new growth. The optimal time for pruning is late winter or early spring, just before the onset of new growth. Regularly inspecting your shrubs for pests and diseases is crucial, as early detection and removal of affected areas can prevent widespread issues and maintain plant health.

Understanding NZ Native Shrubs

NZ Native Shrubs are distinguished by their smaller stature, typically reaching heights of less than three metres. Despite their size, these shrubs are powerhouses of resilience and adaptability. They have evolved to thrive across the country's diverse climates and soil types, from lush forests to rugged coastal zones and even the challenging conditions of alpine regions. Each species contributes uniquely to the country's ecological tapestry, showcasing the incredible adaptability and diversity of New Zealand's flora.

The Importance of Native Shrubs

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, native shrubs are fundamental to the ecological health of New Zealand. They offer critical habitats for a wide array of native birds, insects, and other wildlife, creating a rich biodiversity that supports ecological balance. Moreover, these shrubs play a pivotal role in stabilizing soil and enhancing water quality. By filtering runoff and reducing erosion, they protect waterways and maintain the integrity of the landscape, highlighting their indispensable role in ecosystem conservation.

The Ecological Benefits of Planting Native Shrubs

Incorporating native shrubs into your garden offers numerous ecological benefits beyond enhancing its visual appeal. These plants are inherently adapted to New Zealand's unique climate and conditions, making them low-maintenance and sustainable choices for gardeners. By choosing native plants, you actively contribute to preserving New Zealand's natural heritage and support the conservation of indigenous species, fostering local biodiversity and ecological resilience.