Family: Griseliniaceae
Author: (Raoul) Raoul
Bibliography: Choix Pl. Nouv.-Zél.: 22 (1846)
Year: 1846
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Griselinia
Vegetable: False
Observations: New Zealand
Description
New Zealand broadleaf, scientifically known as Griselinia littoralis, is a notable evergreen tree native to New Zealand. This unique plant, classified under the family Griseliniaceae, was first described in detail by the botanist Etienne Raoul in his 1846 publication, “Choix de Plantes de la Nouvelle-Zélande.”
Thriving predominantly in its native country, the New Zealand broadleaf is characterized by its robust, glossy, and oval leaves. These leaves give the plant a lush, vibrant appearance, making it a popular choice for hedging and ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes. The plant’s adaptability to various soil types and environmental conditions contributes greatly to its widespread use and success, especially in temperate climates.
The Griselinia littoralis often displays a striking green foliage throughout the year, ensuring year-round visual interest. In its natural habitat, it can be found growing in coastal and lowland forests, where it contributes significantly to the local biodiversity. The plant has a moderate growth rate, reaching heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet), with a spread that can provide substantial coverage, making it ideal for creating natural privacy screens.
In addition to its aesthetic qualities, the New Zealand broadleaf can withstand strong winds and salt spray, which makes it particularly suitable for coastal areas. The tree’s resilience and durability have made it a beloved choice among gardeners and landscapers seeking a hardy yet attractive plant.
Griselinia littoralis flowers during the spring, producing small, inconspicuous yellow-green blossoms that attract various pollinators. Following the flowering period, the plant generates small, dark purple berries which are not only visually appealing but also provide food for local wildlife, thus playing a role in the ecosystem’s reproductive cycle.
Overall, the New Zealand broadleaf is a versatile and enduring species that offers both ecological benefits and ornamental value. Whether planted as a standalone specimen or as part of a mixed planting scheme, its vibrant foliage and resilient nature make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Common Names
Eng: new zealand broadleaf
Cym: griselinia
En: New Zealand broadleaf
Mi: Kapuka, Kāpuka
Fa: برگپهن نیوزیلندی
Cy: Griselinia
: New zealand broadleaf
Synonyms
- Griselinia littoralis variegata (J.R.Duncan & V.C.Davies)
- Pukateria littoralis (Raoul)
Distribution
- New Zealand North (native)
- New Zealand South (native)
- Great Britain (introduced)
- Tasmania (introduced)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Mar 15, 2022 by mireille DESCHIENS (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 16, 2022 by Laure Morin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 2, 2022 by Lee Jones (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2020 by Jean-Pierre Bartkowiak (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by Marie F (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 1, 2021 by kafaktor (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 1, 2021 by kafaktor (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Sébastien briaud (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jul 12, 2022 by Tess Nat (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 3, 2022 by paul (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2021 by Anthony VALET (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 23, 2021 by kevin mehring (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 30, 2021 by Robin N (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken May 13, 2021 by Bruno Pancrazi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 14, 2022 by Chris Donovan (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 12, 2021 by Estelle Lefrancois (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 1, 2022 by Clement Al (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 2, 2021 by Hugo Despretz (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Aug 8, 2021 by Anthony VALET (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 9, 2020 by natka planté (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5581563)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:271806-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Griselinia littoralis (Raoul) Raoul)