Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri Details

Commonly known as Black Beech, this is a large, evergreen tree native to NZ. The foliage comprises small, dark green leaves which are held densely in fan-like sprays. Small, red-brown flowers are produced in spring and attract birds and other wildlife. It grows with a broad and rounded habit to about 30 m tall and 10 m wide, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site that does not dry out. It is tolerant of frost and cool climates but does require wind protection while establishing. Black Beech grows slowly at about 75 cm per year but nonetheless makes for a lovely specimen in a larger garden or park. It is also commonly added to a native planting and used in regeneration plantings.