Myrsine

New Zealand’s Best Myrsine Trees

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

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

We have the largest variety of Matipo and the right one for your space. Our Myrsine have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Myrsine, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Myrsine

1. What is the common name for Myrsine australis?

Myrsine australis has several common names, including:

• Mapou (Māori)
• Red matipo
• Tīpau (Māori)
• Mataira (Māori)

2. How do you grow red Matipo?

Red matipo (Myrsine australis) is a beautiful evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. It is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping due to its attractive foliage, red stems, and white flowers that are followed by black fruits. Here's how to grow red matipo:

Planting:

1. Choose a suitable location: Red matipo prefers a position in full sun to partial shade. The soil should be well-drained and slightly acidic.
2. Dig a planting hole: The hole should be twice as wide as the root ball of the plant.
3. Plant the matipo: Gently place the plant in the hole and spread the roots out evenly. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it down gently to remove air pockets.
4. Water thoroughly: Water the plant deeply after planting to help settle the soil.

Care:

1. Watering: Red matipo is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but it will benefit from regular watering during hot, dry weather.
2. Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth.
3. Pruning: Prune Red Matipo in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size.
4. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature.

With proper care, red matipo will thrive for many years to come. It is a beautiful and versatile plant that can add interest and color to any garden.

3. How tall is the mapou tree?

The mapou tree (Myrsine australis) can grow up to 6 metres tall, but it typically reaches a height of 3-4 metres. Its growth rate is moderate, and it can live for many years.

4. What is a matipo?

The term "matipo" is often used to refer to two different species of flowering plants native to New Zealand:

1. Myrsine australis, which is commonly known as red matipo, mapou, tīpau, or mataira. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 metres tall. It has glossy green leaves, red stems, and white flowers that are followed by black fruits. The leaves and bark of the plant were traditionally used in Māori medicine.
2. Melicytus ramaleus, which is commonly known as dwarf matipo or poroporo. It is a small shrub that typically grows to a height of 1-2 metres. It has small, leathery leaves and white flowers that are followed by black fruits. The fruits of the plant are edible and were traditionally eaten by Māori people.

Both red matipo and dwarf matipo are popular plants for gardens and landscaping in New Zealand. They are relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a variety of growing conditions.