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fragrant nz native plants

If you’re dreaming of a garden filled with delightful scents and a sense of local identity, exploring fragrant NZ native plants is a rewarding journey. Not only do these plants provide captivating aromas, but they also support native wildlife, adapt beautifully to New Zealand’s climate, and bring a unique sense of place to your outdoor space. Whether you’re creating a native garden, establishing a wildlife corridor, or simply searching for a few sensory highlights around your outdoor seating area, there’s a fragrant NZ native plant to suit almost every situation.

Dysoxylum spectabile tree.

Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)

Dysoxylum spectabile, commonly known as Kohekohe, is a majestic NZ native tree admired for its glossy dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom in winter. This evergreen tree is unique as it flowers and fruits directly from its trunk and branches, producing orange capsules that open to reveal red seeds.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 10.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Autumn, Winter
Tolerances: Shade
Garden uses: Ponds, Screening
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, White

Laurelia novae-zelandiae

Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as Pukatea, is a magnificent NZ native tree admired for its glossy green leaves, fluted trunk, and ecological significance. This evergreen tree produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers in spring and summer, followed by seed capsules that support birdlife.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 25.00 m
Spread: 10.00 m
Tolerances: Shade, Wet
Garden uses: Ponds, Screening
Garden styles: Native, Riparian
Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

From$494.05
Corokia 'Geenty's Green' hedge.
Corokia 'Geenty's Green'

Corokia 'Geenty's Green' is a hardy, NZ native shrub that bears narrow, olive-green leaves that have a silver underside. Masses of small, star-like...

From$16.95
Clematis paniculata white flowers.
Clematis paniculata

Clematis paniculata, known as Puawhananga, is a stunning native New Zealand climber celebrated for its masses of fragrant white flowers in spring and...

From$37.19
hebe-buxifolia-
Hebe buxifolia (Boxleaf Hebe)

Hebe buxifolia is a NZ native shrub with glossy leaves that are green with yellow edges. These are adorned by masses of fragrant and showy, white...

From$22.01
Kunzea ericoides (Kanuka) shrub in full flower.
Kunzea ericoides

Kunzea ericoides, commonly known as Kanuka, is a fast-growing, NZ native tree. It features small, dark green leaves that release a pleasant fragrance...

From$8.97
A Kunzea robusta shrub with masses of pretty, white flowers.
Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta (White Tea Tree) is a fast growing NZ native tree known for its fine foliage and masses of small white flowers that attract bees and...

From$8.97
Pittosporum crassifolium (Karo) olive-green foliage and red flowers.
Pittosporum crassifolium (Karo)

Pittosporum crassifolium, commonly known as Karo, is a hardy, evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand. It features dense, grey-green...

From$15.04
leptospermum-wairere-
Leptospermum 'Wairere'

Leptospermum 'Wairere' is a hardy evergreen shrub admired for its dense foliage and masses of attractive flowers through spring and summer. This...

From$27.53
Corynocarpus laevigatus (Karaka) tree with lush foliage.
Corynocarpus laevigatus

Corynocarpus laevigatus, commonly known as Karaka, is a handsome, NZ native tree that features large and glossy, green leaves. The lush foliage is...

From$23.39
Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) shrubs in a native reserve.
Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka)

Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as Manuka or New Zealand Tea Tree, is a hardy native shrub prized for its aromatic foliage and masses of white...

From$13.73
A Gardenia radicans shrub looking amazing with lush foliage and white flowers.
Gardenia radicans

Gardenia radicans is a compact, low-growing shrub prized for its glossy green foliage and intensely fragrant white flowers. Blooming from late spring...

From$16.95
A Spearmint plant with lush, green leaves.
Mint Plant

Mint Plant (Spearmint) is a popular herb grown for its fresh fragrant leaves and versatile use in cooking drinks and home remedies. Well suited to...

From$16.49
Gardenia 'Fragrant Star' white flowers and dark green foliage.
Gardenia 'Fragrant Star'

Gardenia 'Fragrant Star' is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its intensely perfumed, star-shaped white flowers and glossy green foliage...

From$18.95
brunfelsia-fragrant-summer-
Brunfelsia 'Fragrant Summer'

Brunfelsia 'Fragrant Summer' is a beautiful evergreen shrub admired for its highly fragrant flowers that open in rich purple shades before fading to...

From$27.53
Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' plants in pots.
Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub admired for its trailing habit and attractive variegated foliage of green edged...

From$16.95
Libertia grandiflora plant with elegant white flowers and lush, dark green foliage.
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Libertia grandiflora, commonly known as NZ Iris, is a hardy New Zealand native perennial admired for its elegant white flowers and sword like green...

From$16.50
Fuchsia procumbens plant growing across the ground with green foliage and yellow-green flowers.
Fuchsia procumbens (Creeping Fuchsia)

Fuchsia procumbens, commonly known as Creeping Fuchsia, is a low-growing, NZ native plant valued for its unique yellow-red flowers and ornamental...

From$14.50
Acaena novae-zelandiae colourful foliage.
Acaena novae-zelandiae (Piripiri)

Acaena novae-zelandiae is a hardy NZ native groundcover commonly known as Bidgee Widgee. It is admired for its fine green foliage and small burr like...

From$9.95
clianthus-puniceus-
Clianthus puniceus (Parrot Beak Plant)

Clianthus puniceus (Kakabeak) is a spectacular New Zealand native shrub renowned for its striking clusters of brilliant red, beak shaped flowers that...

From$44.09
Coprosma kirkii green foliage held on yellow stems.
Coprosma kirkii

Coprosma kirkii, commonly known as Creeping Coprosma, is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub valued for its dense, trailing habit and small glossy...

From$11.95
Disphyma australe pink flowers and fleshy, green leaves.
Disphyma australe (NZ Ice Plant)

Disphyma australe, commonly known as NZ Ice Plant, is a hardy and attractive groundcover valued for its fleshy, bright green foliage and striking...

From$14.95
Coprosma Poor Knights with lush green foliage.
Coprosma 'Poor Knights' (Taupata)

Coprosma 'Poor Knights' is a vibrant evergreen shrub valued for its glossy lime green foliage and compact rounded habit. This NZ native selection...

From$11.95
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.
Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$44.09
agave-americana-variegata--1
Agave americana 'Variegata' (Variegated Century Plant)

Agave americana 'Variegata' is a striking evergreen succulent valued for its bold architectural form and strongly variegated foliage. It forms a...

From$15.95
Stromanthe triostar plant.
Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$33.05
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
strelitzia-nicolai-
Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird Of Paradise Plant)

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue...

From$44.09
native-plant-fertiliser-
Native Plant Fertiliser (Native Fertiliser)

Selecting the correct native plant fertiliser is essential as they often tend to be slow growing and so require a tailored nutrient plan to meet...

From$13.40
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.51 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$23.04
Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Clematis, Corokia, and Dysoxylum, or related Categories - Evergreen Climbers, Groundcover Plants, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search fragrant nz native plants

Why Choose Fragrant NZ Native Plants?

Fragrant NZ native plants are a smart choice for eco-conscious gardeners and those seeking low-maintenance beauty. They offer subtle and sometimes surprising floral and foliage aromas that can evoke memories of bush walks or summer breezes. Unlike many introduced scented plants, New Zealand natives are naturally adapted to the Aotearoa environment, making them hardy and resilient across a range of situations.

Top Picks for Fragrant NZ Native Plants

Some of the most sought-after fragrant NZ native plants include both well-known species and lesser-celebrated treasures.

Pimelea prostrata 'Blue Peter'
Pimelea prostrata 'Blue Peter' is a spreading groundcover that delights with its clusters of tiny, sweetly scented white flowers from spring to early summer. Its compact form is perfect for borders, rockeries, and coastal gardens, bringing both fragrance and a soft visual appeal.

Hedycarya arborea
Hedycarya arborea, known as pigeonwood, offers scented greenish-cream flowers and lush evergreen foliage. It’s a fantastic medium-sized tree for shelter, shade, and supporting native birdlife with its fruit.

Olearia paniculata (Akiraho)
Olearia paniculata (Akiraho) is a hardy, coastal shrub or hedge plant, producing heavily perfumed, creamy white flower clusters in spring. Its wavy, yellowish-green leaves add textural interest, and the rich perfume attracts both people and pollinators.

Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany)
Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany) is best known for its striking, honey-scented flowers in late spring. This elegant tree makes a bold statement in larger gardens and offers year-round appeal with glossy leaves and a stately form.

While not strictly native, companion planting with aromatic species like Mint Plant can enhance your garden’s sensory impact by layering scent and attracting beneficial insects.

Gardening Tips for Fragrant NZ Native Plants

To make the most of fragrant NZ native plants, consider planting them near entrances, walkways, or seating areas where their scent will be most appreciated. Many natives thrive with minimal attention if planted in well-drained soil and protected from harsh winds. Mulching and regular watering in the first two years help establish robust, fragrant growth.

Explore More Fragrant NZ Native Plants With Us

Adding fragrant NZ native plants to your landscape is a sensory and ecological delight. From the subtle perfumes of groundcovers like Pimelea prostrata 'Blue Peter' to the heady, honeyed notes of Dysoxylum spectabile (New Zealand Mahogany), you’ll find options for every garden size and style. Discover the perfect native fragrances to uplift your outdoor living and nurture biodiversity by exploring our full range of NZ natives and companion plants.


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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.

Gardeners love Avocado 'Reed' and Ficus benjamina, but there’s a growing buzz around plants like Grape 'Buffalo', Graptopetalum paraguayense, and Cornus kousa 'China Girl'.
–The Plant Company

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