New zealand wineberry (Aristotelia serrata, Trans. & Proc. New Zealand Inst. 53: 365 (1921))

Family: Elaeocarpaceae

Author: (J.R.Forst. & G.Forst.) Oliv.

Bibliography: Trans. & Proc. New Zealand Inst. 53: 365 (1921)

Year: 1921

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Aristotelia

Vegetable: False

Observations: New Zealand

Description

The New Zealand wineberry, scientifically known as Aristotelia serrata, is a prominent species within the Elaeocarpaceae family. This plant is native to New Zealand and is well-regarded for its ecological and cultural significance in the region.

Aristotelia serrata was first documented in literature published in the Transactions and Proceedings of the New Zealand Institute, 53: 365, in 1921. The botanical classification was attributed to the work of Johann Reinhold Forster and Georg Forster, with subsequent taxonomic revisions by Daniel Oliver, indicated by the author notation (J.R.Forst. & G.Forst.) Oliv.

The New Zealand wineberry thrives in a variety of forest environments across the country, showcasing its adaptability to different ecological conditions. The plant is recognized for its appealing appearance, characterized by serrated leaves and clusters of small, bright red berries, which ripen to a deep purple or black hue. These berries are not only visually striking but also serve as a food source for local wildlife, including birds and insects.

In addition to its role in local ecosystems, the New Zealand wineberry possesses cultural significance for indigenous Māori communities, who have traditionally utilized different parts of the plant for medicinal purposes and as a food source.

Overall, Aristotelia serrata exemplifies the rich botanical diversity of New Zealand and underscores the intricate connections between native flora, fauna, and cultural practices.

Common Names

Eng: new zealand wineberry, wineberry
En: New Zealand wineberry, Wineberry
: New zealand wineberry

Synonyms

• Aristotelia racemosa ((A.Cunn.) Hook.f.)
• Friesia racemosa (A.Cunn.)
• Dicera serrata (J.R.Forst. & G.Forst.)
• Triphalia rubicunda (Banks & Sol. ex Hook.f.)

Distribution

• New Zealand North (native)
• New Zealand South (native)

Additional Images

Bark

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)

Leaf

Taken May 12, 2020 by schmn j (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2020 by schmn j (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5651040)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:323917-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Aristotelia serrata (J.R.Forst. & G.Forst.) Oliv.)

Specifications

Growth