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native new zealand plants list

Exploring a native New Zealand plants list is a fantastic way to discover the unique greenery that brings character and resilience to Kiwi gardens. Whether you’re restoring a landscape, encouraging local wildlife, or simply seeking hardy, beautiful plants for your garden, native species offer unmatched beauty and adaptability. This guide covers some iconic choices for anyone wanting to enrich their backyard or property with authentic New Zealand flora. Read on to find your next favourite plant and see how these natives can transform your landscape.

Arthropodium 'Te Puna' plants with elegant white flowers bordering a path.

Arthropodium 'Te Puna' (Rengarenga Lily)

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Arthropodium ‘Te Puna’ is a compact New Zealand native perennial valued for its tidy clumping habit, slender green foliage, and masses of starry white flowers in spring and summer. This reliable plant adds softness and movement to NZ gardens while remaining easy to maintain. It is well suited to borders, mass planting, and modern landscapes.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native, Tropical, White
Pseudopanax lessonii purpurea shrub in a garden with purple and green foliage.

Pseudopanax lessonii purpurea

Pseudopanax lessonii 'Purpurea' is a striking New Zealand native shrub admired for its rich purple toned foliage and bold architectural form. This evergreen plant provides year round colour and structure, making it an excellent feature for modern landscapes, native gardens, and mixed borders.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga) plants in flower with lush green foliage in a border garden.
Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily)

Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as Rengarenga Lily or New Zealand Rock Lily, is a clump-forming, evergreen perennial native to New Zealand. It...

From$9.95
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$16.95
pseudopanax-lessonii-gold-finger-
Pseudopanax 'Gold Finger'

Pseudopanax 'Gold Finger' is a striking New Zealand native shrub valued for its distinctive golden green foliage and strong architectural form. The...

From$270.40
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$17.95
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
clianthus-kaka-king-
Clianthus Kaka King

Clianthus 'Kaka King' is a striking NZ native shrub valued for its bold clusters of rich red flowers, graceful foliage, and strong garden presence...

From$116.12
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
fuscospora-cliffortioides-4
Fuscospora cliffortioides

Fuscospora cliffortioides (Mountain Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, natural form, and strong...

From$270.40
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
A Metrosideros robusta (Northern Rata) tree in full flower in a native reserve.
Metrosideros robusta

Metrosideros robusta, commonly known as Northern Rata, is a majestic New Zealand native tree renowned for its brilliant red flowers and large...

From$323.65
Dianella nigra plant with masses of blue berries.
Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

Dianella nigra, commonly known as the New Zealand Blueberry or Tūrutu, is a NZ native that features lush foliage and glossy berries that vary in...

From$16.49
fuscospora-solandri-
Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, dense canopy, and strong natural...

From$270.40
A small Pseudopanax 'Cyril Watson' shrub with lush, bright green foliage.
Pseudopanax 'Cyril Watson'

Pseudopanax 'Cyril Watson' is a distinctive New Zealand native shrub, recognised for its lush, glossy green foliage with 3 to 5 rounded, partially...

From$192.51
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
A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.
Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching...

From$229.95
Dodonaea viscosa purpurea shrub with colourful, purple foliage growing an an informal hedge.
Dodonaea viscosa purpurea (Purple Hop Bush)

Dodonaea viscosa purpurea, commonly known as Purple Ake Ake, features lush, purple leaves which are held densely off upright stems. The foliage is...

From$99.95
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
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
Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.
Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark...

From$270.40
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
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
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
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
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$17.95
Dodonaea viscosa small tree with green foliage.
Dodonaea viscosa (Green Ake Ake)

Dodonaea viscosa, commonly known as the Green Ake Ake, features lush, bright green leaves which are held densely off upright stems. The foliage is...

From$13.95
Juncus effusus plants growing in water.
Juncus effusus (Soft Rush Plant)

Juncus effusus (Spiral Rush) is an eye catching rush valued for its distinctive twisting green stems, compact clumping habit, and strong...

From$16.49
Plagianthus regius as a small tree in a garden.
Plagianthus regius (Ribbonwood)

Plagianthus regius, commonly known as Ribbonwood or Manatu, is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing native trees. It can reach 10–15 metres tall and...

From$23.39
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
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
Arthropodium 'Te Puna' (Rengarenga Lily)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acaena, Arthropodium, and Clianthus, or related Categories - Groundcover Plants, Perennials, and Shrubs.

Search native new zealand plants list

Why Choose Native New Zealand Plants?

Native New Zealand plants are perfectly adapted to the country’s climate and soils, making them low-maintenance and unlikely to require chemical sprays or fertilisers. They also provide vital habitat for birds, insects, and other native species, helping restore local ecosystems. Many natives have striking foliage or produce stunning flowers, thriving even in challenging conditions such as coastal winds or shaded sites. By selecting from a native New Zealand plants list, you’ll create a garden that’s beautiful, biodiverse, and sustainable.

Popular Native New Zealand Plants

Here’s a selection of native New Zealand plants prized for their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ecological benefits:

Leptospermum Wairere

Known for its groundcover form, Leptospermum Wairere offers fine, slender leaves and delicate white flowers. Alongside its attractive appearance, it’s highly tolerant of wind and salt, making it perfect for coastal gardens.

Arthropodium 'Te Puna' (Rengarenga Lily)

The Arthropodium 'Te Puna' (Rengarenga Lily) is a robust perennial with lush, strap-like leaves and elegant white, star-shaped flowers. It’s an ideal choice for shady spots and borders, thriving in both formal and cottage-style gardens.

Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily)

Another variety of rengarenga lily, Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily), is treasured for its adaptability and bold foliage. This easy-care plant works well as a groundcover or accent in native gardens and supports pollinators.

Coprosma 'Hawera' (Sand Coprosma)

For coastal areas and sandier soils, Coprosma 'Hawera' (Sand Coprosma) is a standout choice. Its prostrate stems and glossy leaves create lush, evergreen carpets with excellent erosion control.

Acaena purpurea (Piripiri)

[Piripiri], also known as Acaena purpurea (Piripiri), is a low-growing groundcover with purplish foliage and unique seed heads. It’s well-suited for rockery, pathway edges, and tough spots where other plants might struggle.

Complementing Your Native Plant Selection

When shopping from a native New Zealand plants list, consider factors like light, drainage, and wind exposure. Native plants often thrive in groups, mimicking their natural habitats and providing shelter for local wildlife. Combining groundcovers, perennials, and shrubs delivers year-round interest, resilience, and ecological value.

Explore Native New Zealand Plants Today

Curating your garden with natives not only boosts sustainability—it celebrates New Zealand’s natural heritage. Browse our range, including Leptospermum Wairere, Arthropodium 'Te Puna' (Rengarenga Lily), Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily), Coprosma 'Hawera' (Sand Coprosma), and Acaena purpurea (Piripiri) to find your perfect native match. Bring the best of New Zealand’s flora home and enjoy a garden that flourishes naturally.


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.

Rose 'Flower Carpet White' and Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' are tried and true, but new favourites like Magnolia 'Margaret Helen', Malus 'Wrights Scarlet', and Magnolia 'Strawberry Fields' are just waiting to be discovered.
–The Plant Company

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