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best evergreen trees

If you’re searching for the best evergreen trees to add year-round structure, privacy, or vibrant greenery to your garden, you’re in the right place. Evergreen trees are the backbone of many New Zealand landscapes, offering lasting beauty no matter the season. These hardworking trees keep their leaves all year, making them ideal for screening, windbreaks, or simply as statement specimens in the garden. In this guide, we’ll spotlight some of the best evergreen trees suitable for a variety of New Zealand garden styles and conditions.

podocarpus-gracilior-

Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Podocarpus gracilior (Fern Pine) is an elegant evergreen tree valued for its fine textured foliage, graceful form, and versatility in the landscape. Despite its common name, it is not a true pine but offers a similar evergreen presence with a softer and more refined appearance.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Formal, Mediterranean
castanospermum-australe-2

Castanospermum australe (Moreton Bay Chestnut)

Commonly known as the Moreton Bay Chestnut, this is an evergreen tree commonly grown as an indoor plant or added to subtropical gardens. It produces lush, green foilage off upright stems. Clusters of red, peal-like flowers are borne during late spring which give rise to the chestnut-like seeds in autumn.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Trees
Height: 15.00 m
Spread: 7.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Tropical
podocarpus-henkelii-1
Podocarpus henkelii (Yellowwood)

Podocarpus henkelii (Henkel Yellowwood) is an elegant evergreen tree admired for its graceful weeping foliage, stately form, and year round appeal...

From$270.40
acacia-howittii-
Acacia howittii (Sticky Wattle)

Acacia howittii, commonly known as Sticky Wattle, is an attractive evergreen tree valued for its graceful weeping habit, fine green foliage, and...

From$349.95
Laurus nobilis foliage and flowers.
Laurus nobilis

Laurus nobilis, commonly known as Sweet Bay Tree or Bay Laurel, is a versatile evergreen tree prized for its aromatic leaves and classic form. It...

From$34.43
A Michelia 'Velvet and Cream' tree with masses of cream-white flowers amidst glossy green foliage.
Michelia 'Velvet and Cream'

Michelia 'Velvet and Cream' is a compact, evergreen tree admired for its glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom...

From$34.43
Michelia 'Paton Pink' flowers on a stem.
Michelia 'Paton Pink'

Michelia 'Paton Pink' is a stunning evergreen tree known for its profusion of fragrant, blush pink flowers in early spring. The blossoms appear among...

From$387.55
eucryphia-cordifolia--1
Eucryphia cordifolia

Eucryphia cordifolia (Ulmo) is a magnificent evergreen tree renowned for its glossy foliage and masses of fragrant white flowers that appear from...

From$408.85
fraxinus-griffithii-3
Fraxinus griffithii

Fraxinus griffithii (Evergreen Ash) is a fast growing evergreen tree valued for its glossy foliage and neat upright form. It is well suited to New...

From$270.40
Michelia 'Fairy White' white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Michelia 'Fairy White'

Michelia 'Fairy White' is a compact evergreen tree admired for its glossy dark green foliage and fragrant pure white flowers that bloom from late...

From$136.04
Michelia yunnanensis white flowers and glossy, green foliage.
Michelia yunnanensis

Michelia yunnanensis is a compact, evergreen tree renowned for its glossy, green leaves and highly fragrant, white flowers, which bloom from late...

From$270.40
Michelia 'Inspiration' white flowers and dark green foliage.
Michelia 'Inspiration'

Michelia 'Inspiration' is a compact evergreen tree admired for its glossy dark green foliage and fragrant white flowers that bloom from late winter...

From$34.43
azara-microphylla-2
Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

From$387.55
magnolia-russet-
Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet'

Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet' is a striking evergreen magnolia valued for its glossy dark green leaves with rich russet brown undersides and large...

From$387.55
olive-koroneiki-
Olive 'Koroneiki'

Olive 'Koroneiki' is a premium olive variety renowned for producing exceptional quality oil with rich flavour and high oil content. This evergreen...

From$270.40
Phyllocladus trichomanoides lush green foliage.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine)

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly called Celery Pine, is a striking New Zealand native tree valued for its unique, celery like foliage and tall...

From$515.35
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Magnolia grandiflora 'Ferruginea'

Magnolia grandiflora 'Ferruginea' is a magnificent evergreen magnolia known for its glossy green foliage, striking rusty brown leaf undersides, and...

From$515.35
A Ficus hillii (Evergreen Fig) specimen tree with lush, green foliage.
Ficus Hillii (Australian Banyan)

Ficus hillii (Evergreen Fig, Hill's Fig) is a fast growing evergreen tree valued for its dense glossy green foliage and excellent screening ability...

From$12.95
Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

From$24.15
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7
Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

From$28.91
olive-leccino-2
Olive 'Leccino'

Olive 'Leccino' is a popular olive variety valued for its reliable fruit production, attractive silver green foliage, and excellent oil quality. This...

From$270.40
A large and showy Quercus ilex specimen tree in a field.
Quercus ilex

Quercus ilex, commonly known as the Holm Oak or Evergreen Oak, is an evergreen tree with lush foliage. The dark green leaves are glossy and...

From$270.40
aloe-barberae-
Aloidendron barberae (Tree Aloe)

Commonly known as Tree Aloe, this is a large variety of Aloe that can reach 15 m tall and 3 m wide. This impressive tree forms a rounded crown of...

From$57.89
Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark) branch with masses of white flowers and green foliage.
Hoheria sextylosa (Lacebark)

Hoheria sextylosa, commonly known as Lacebark or the Lace Bark Tree, is a quick growing, NZ native tree. The bark has a lace like appearance, hence...

From$323.65
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Magnolia Kay Parris (Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris)

Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris, commonly known as Southern Magnolia or Evergreen Magnolia, is a small tree that produces masses of large and showy...

From$387.55
Alnus jorullensis lush green foliage.
Alnus jorullensis

Alnus jorullensis (Evergreen Alder, Mexican Alder) is a fast growing and versatile tree that performs superbly in many New Zealand landscapes. It is...

From$165.51
pinus-pinea-1
Pinus pinea

Pinus pinea (Pine Nut) is a distinctive evergreen conifer admired for its broad umbrella shaped canopy, long green needles, and edible pine nuts...

From$270.40
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Fuscospora cliffortioides (Mountain Beech)

Commonly known as Mountain Beech, this is a large, evergreen tree native to NZ. The foliage comprises small, dark green leaves which are held densely...

From$270.40
carpodetus-serratus-4
Carpodetus serratus

Carpodetus serratus, commonly known as the Putaputaweta Tree or Marble Leaf, is an attractive, NZ native tree with spreading branches that host...

From$298.09
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
fuscospora-solandri-
Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech)

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...

From$270.40
Podocarpus gracilior (African Fern Pine)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acacia, Castanospermum, and Eucryphia, or related Categories - Evergreen Trees.

Search best evergreen trees

Why Choose Evergreen Trees for Your Garden?

Evergreen trees stand out for their ability to provide continuous colour, shelter, and wildlife habitat throughout the year. Unlike deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in winter, evergreens ensure your garden remains lush and lively even during colder months. They are perfect for creating private retreats, filtering wind, or offering a handsome backdrop for seasonal flowers and shrubs.

Top Picks: Best Evergreen Trees for New Zealand Gardens

Looking to make a lasting impact? Here are some of the best evergreen trees that thrive in New Zealand gardens:

Sequoiadendron giganteum (Sequoia gigantea Tree)

The majestic Sequoiadendron giganteum (Sequoia gigantea Tree) is renowned for its towering presence and soft, blue-green foliage. While it can eventually grow to a massive size, its pyramidal shape and dense branches make it a memorable feature tree for larger spaces. This resilient evergreen is also surprisingly hardy, withstanding tough conditions when established.

Daphniphyllum macropodum

If you crave something a bit more unique, Daphniphyllum macropodum is a fabulous choice. With glossy, large leaves and upright, multi-stemmed form, this evergreen is perfect for informal screens or as a bold backdrop in mixed borders. Its subtle red stems add interest during winter when many plants have faded away.

Lagunaria patersonia

For those coastal or windy locations, Lagunaria patersonia shines as one of the best evergreen trees. Sometimes called the Norfolk Island Hibiscus, this tree boasts striking pink hibiscus-like flowers and tough, leathery foliage. It’s well-suited to coastal gardens, tolerating salt spray and exposed spots.

Eucryphia cordifolia (Ulmo)

The beautiful Eucryphia cordifolia (Ulmo) provides a profusion of white, honey-scented flowers in late summer and glossy evergreen leaves year-round. Its upright growth and reliable flowering make it a popular choice for both town and country gardens in New Zealand.

Magnolia Jade Emperor (Evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor)

For a stately appearance, Magnolia Jade Emperor (Evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor) delivers gorgeous deep green foliage and large, creamy-white blooms from an early age. This compact form of evergreen magnolia suits smaller gardens and adds classic elegance to any setting.

Choosing the Best Evergreen Tree for Your Needs

When selecting from the best evergreen trees, consider your site’s conditions—space, soil, wind exposure, and climate. With so many beautiful options available, you can easily find a tree that will thrive and reward you with year-round greenery and structure.

Ready to start planting? Explore our full range of the best evergreen trees and transform your garden into a lush, vibrant retreat, no matter the season.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

While Ficus benjamina and Corokia 'Geenty's Green' often steal the spotlight, charming plants like Echeveria Dark Prince, Peperomia Jade, and Alectryon excelsus quietly shine in any garden.
–The Plant Company

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