Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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canterbury native plants

Looking for Canterbury native plants that will thrive in your garden or landscaping project? The unique flora of Canterbury, New Zealand, offers a range of stunning and hardy species that bring both beauty and ecological benefits to your outdoor spaces. From lush green foliage to vibrant seasonal blooms, Canterbury native plants are perfectly suited to the region’s climate and soil, supporting local wildlife and fostering biodiversity. Find out how these plants can transform your garden and which varieties are best for Canterbury conditions.

Griselinia 'Canterbury'

Griselinia 'Canterbury' is a compact New Zealand native shrub prized for its bright green foliage held on attractive red-brown stems. It forms a dense, upright structure ideal for formal hedges, privacy screens, or coastal shelter. This hardy evergreen variety thrives in various conditions, including full sun, partial shade, and exposed sites with salt-laden winds. With its tidy form, year-round color, and low maintenance requirements, Griselinia 'Canterbury' is a reliable and stylish choice for New Zealand gardens.

Buy Griselinia 'Canterbury'

From $22.88

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 3.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native

Prostanthera Eddington Blue (Mint Bush Plant)

Prostanthera Eddington Blue is an evergreen shrub grown for its foliage and flowers. It features small and glossy, green leaves which are highly aromatic. The foliage is complemented with masses of small, blue flowers in spring as it grows to 1 m tall and the same wide. Prostanthera Eddington Blue is commonly included in a mixed planting, used in borders, or planted anywhere the beauty and fragrance of this plant can be enjoyed.

Buy Prostanthera Eddington Blue (Mint Bush Plant)

From $26.93

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 1.00 m

Spread: 1.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Paths & Steps

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Rock

Why Choose Canterbury Native Plants?

Selecting Canterbury native plants means choosing species that are adapted to local soil types and weather patterns. These plants are generally more resilient to drought, wind, and winter frosts common in the Canterbury region. By planting natives, you help conserve water, reduce maintenance, and support native birds and pollinators. The natural character and low-maintenance attributes of Canterbury natives make them ideal for home gardens, public spaces, and restoration projects across the South Island.

Popular Canterbury Native Plant Choices

A diverse range of Canterbury native plants are available for gardeners and landscapers. Some favourites include:

Griselinia littoralis: This versatile evergreen shrub is well-known for its glossy green leaves and ability to withstand Canterbury’s winds. Griselinia 'Canterbury' is a locally admired cultivar, offering rich foliage and a tidy growing habit, perfect for hedging or screening.
Grevillea Canterbury Gold: While technically an Australian native, this hardy shrub has become well-loved in Canterbury gardens for its golden-hued blooms that attract tui, bellbirds, and bees. Grevillea Canterbury Gold is a standout option for year-round interest.
Camellia 'Canterbury': For those seeking ornamental appeal, Camellia 'Canterbury' provides lush evergreen leaves and display-worthy blooms, blending beautifully with other New Zealand native plantings.

Native Flowers for Colour and Texture

If you’re after Canterbury native plants with a burst of seasonal colour, consider the campanula range. Both Campanula Canterbury Bells Pink (Canterbury Bells Pink Campanula) and Campanula Canterbury Bells White offer tall, bell-shaped blooms perfect for borders, wildflower meadows, or cottage-style spaces. Their long flowering period and soft hues make them an excellent companion to native shrubs and grasses.

Planning and Caring for Canterbury Natives

When choosing Canterbury native plants for your landscape, consider their sun and shelter needs, ultimate size, and soil preference. Many thrive in full sun with well-drained soils, though some prefer dappled shade among established trees. Be sure to prepare your site with compost and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds—key to helping newly planted natives establish robust root systems.

Mulching and light pruning will keep your Canterbury native plants healthy and looking their best. Most natives grow well with minimal fertiliser but appreciate gentle feeding in spring.

Bring Canterbury’s Charm Home

Enhance your garden’s beauty and resilience by featuring Canterbury native plants. With species like Griselinia 'Canterbury', Grevillea Canterbury Gold, and flowering campanulas, you can create a vibrant native haven that celebrates the unique character of the Canterbury region—all while supporting local ecosystems for years to come.

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.