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landscaping nz native plants

Designing your garden with landscaping NZ native plants is a rewarding choice for biodiversity, sustainability, and natural beauty. New Zealand is home to a unique collection of native trees, shrubs, and ground covers, each with their own character and benefits. By using native plants in your landscape, you support the local ecosystem, attract native birds and insects, and enjoy a garden that flourishes with less effort. Discover how to incorporate native plants into your outdoor space for a garden that is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and resilient to New Zealand’s climate.

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 foliage. Blooming in late spring to early summer, the flowers rise gracefully above the foliage, creating a striking display.

From $16.50

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 60 cm
Spread: 75 cm
Flowering time: Spring
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' plants in pots.

Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

5 from 1 customers

Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub admired for its trailing habit and attractive variegated foliage of green edged with cream. This evergreen plant provides year round colour and texture while suppressing weeds and covering bare ground.

From $16.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Groundcover Plants
Height: 60 cm
Spread: 1.50 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Ground covering, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Native, Rock
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
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
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
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...

From$589.90
Coprosma acerosa growing on a sand dune.
Coprosma acerosa

Coprosma acerosa, also known as Sand Coprosma or Tātaraheke, is a hardy New Zealand native groundcover well-suited to exposed and coastal...

From$7.50
Sophora molloyi 'Dragons Gold' small trees in full flower at The Plant Company.
Sophora 'Dragon's Gold'

Sophora 'Dragons Gold' is a highly ornamental NZ native shrub renowned for its early and vibrant golden yellow flowers. Blooming in late winter and...

From$26.15
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
Sophora prostrata plant growing with a backdrop of Coprosma 'Poor Knights'.
Sophora prostrata

Sophora prostrata (Prostrate Kōwhai) is a unique New Zealand native shrub known for its distinctive zigzag stems and small bright yellow flowers...

From$26.15
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka) tree with green-yellow foliage.
Libocedrus plumosa (Kawaka)

Libocedrus plumosa, commonly known as Kawaka, is a majestic NZ native conifer valued for its graceful, feathery foliage and elegant pyramidal form...

From$323.65
A large Prumnopitys ferruginea (Miro Tree) with lush, green foliage.
Prumnopitys ferruginea

Prumnopitys ferruginea, commonly known as Miro, is a majestic New Zealand native tree belonging to the Podocarp family. This long lived evergreen...

From$408.85
Coprosma Red Rocks with colourful foliage in a garden.
Coprosma 'Red Rocks'

Coprosma 'Red Rocks' is a hardy NZ native shrub known for its rich red toned foliage and tough spreading habit. Naturally found in coastal...

From$16.95
Nestegis montana narrow green leaves on a tree.
Nestegis montana (Narrow-Leaved Maire)

Nestegis montana is a hardy and attractive native tree of New Zealand, known for its upright growth habit and glossy green foliage. This evergreen...

From$270.40
pimelea-mimosa--1
Pimelea mimosa

Pimelea mimosa is an attractive evergreen shrub valued for its fine textured foliage, compact growth habit, and clusters of delicate flowers. This...

From$15.95
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...

From$323.65
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
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
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai) juvenile tree growing as a specimen in a park.
Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

Prumnopitys taxifolia, commonly known as Matai or Black Pine, is a stately, NZ native tree with quite different juvenile and adult forms. The...

From$309.51
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$30.29
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
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
Libertia grandiflora (NZ Iris)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acaena, Coprosma, and Kunzea, or related Categories - Flaxes, Groundcover Plants, and Evergreen Shrubs.

Search landscaping nz native plants

Why Choose NZ Native Plants for Landscaping

When landscaping NZ native plants are prioritised in your design, you tap into a palette of foliage that is naturally adapted to the country’s conditions. Native plants generally need less water and fertiliser than exotic species, and they thrive with minimal intervention. Many Kiwis value the connection native plants foster between their homes and New Zealand’s wild spaces. Moreover, these plants can help stabilise soil, reduce erosion, and create habitats for native wildlife.

Top NZ Native Plants for Landscaping

From striking shrubs to lush groundcovers and impressive canopy trees, landscaping NZ native plants offers endless versatility. If you’re seeking colour and texture, try incorporating Leptospermum Crimson Glory. This vibrant shrub produces masses of deep red flowers and is perfect for hedges, borders, or feature planting.

For practical groundcover, Coprosma kirkii is a popular choice. Its dense, spreading habit suppresses weeds and stabilises banks. For extra ornamental appeal, Coprosma kirkii 'variegata' brings a splash of creamy white-edged foliage, brightening shady spots and underplantings.

Low-growing Lobelia angulata (Panakenake) is another favourite for moist areas or between stepping stones, with its delicate white flowers and lush green leaves.

To anchor your landscape and provide height, consider native trees such as Laurelia novae-zelandiae. This fast-growing evergreen produces attractive, glossy foliage and offers shelter and shade for smaller plants beneath.

Tips for Landscaping with NZ Native Plants

When landscaping NZ native plants, start by observing your garden’s microclimates—sunny, shady, wet or dry zones—so you can position each species for success. Group plants with similar needs, and layer foliage heights for a natural look. Mulch with organic materials to mimic the forest floor, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. Remember to check the mature size of each species to avoid overcrowding.

Think beyond aesthetics: native plants can attract tui, bellbirds, and kererū, all eager to feast on nectar and berries. Including a variety of foliage types, flowers, and seeds will support these visitors year-round.

Ready to Landscape with Native Plants?

Whether you’re revamping a backyard, planning a new build, or simply adding a feature shrub, landscaping NZ native plants offers timeless appeal and practical benefits. Explore our range of New Zealand natives, including Leptospermum Crimson Glory, Coprosma kirkii 'variegata', Coprosma kirkii, Lobelia angulata (Panakenake), and Laurelia novae-zelandiae to grow a beautiful, eco-friendly New Zealand garden.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
While Chamaemelum nobile (Chamomile) and Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily) often steal the spotlight, charming plants like Nashi 'Hosui', Buddleia 'Lochinch', and Ligustrum 'Rotundifolium' quietly shine in any garden.
–The Plant Company

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