Why Plant NZ Natives

As a predominantly native nursery it is important for us to be able to communicate to the wider community why we choose to focus on growing New Zealand Natives.

Apart from the fact that we think New Zealand has some of the most beautiful plants, we also understand the importance of natives for bird and insect life, as well as on the land and ecosystem as a whole. New Zealand’s flora has evolved over millions of years, mainly in isolation, to support a unique population of animals and insects.

Not only are these plant species perfectly suited to the local environment, but they also provide a food source and habitat which encourage restoration of the natural balance.

Exotic or introduced plants are often more vigorous and flashier than their Native counterparts, but can sometimes outcompete them, whilst not providing the ecological value of the Native species.

To provide a food source all year round it is important to plant a variety of natives in your garden. Purchasing plants that use eco-sourced seeds means that your plants will thrive in the area they have originated from.

Best New Zealand Native plants for attracting the Birds and Bees are:

Kowhai(Sophora Chatamica)

Flax(Phormium tenax)

Puriri(Vitex lucin) A food source for more than 8 months of the year.

Rewarewa(Knightia excelsia)

Koromiko (Hebe)

Pohutukawa(Metrosiderous excelsa)

Cabbage tree (Cordyline Australis)

Nikau (Rhopalostylissapida)

Rengarenga(Arthropodium)

Karamu (Coprosma robusta)

Titoki (Alectryon excelsa)

Karaka (Corynocarpus laevigatus)

Pigeon wood(Hedycarya arborea)

Lacebark(Hoheria populnea)

Ribbon wood (Plagianthus regius)

Putaputaweta(Carpodetus serratus)

Manuka (Leptospermum)

Kanuka (Kunzea ericoides)

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