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native tree species

New Zealand’s landscape is enriched by an extraordinary variety of native tree species, each bringing its unique character, ecological value, and beauty to our gardens, parks, and forests. These indigenous trees offer more than just aesthetic appeal; they play crucial roles in supporting wildlife, restoring biodiversity, and grounding our local heritage. Whether you’re exploring options for a native planting project, searching for specimens to enhance a home garden, or wanting to learn more about New Zealand’s remarkable flora, the search for native tree species opens a world of discovery and practical possibilities.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

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Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple fruits through autumn and winter, which are favoured by birds. Also of interest are the leaves, which, when young, are covered in red-brown hairs that disappear as the tree ages.

From $270.40

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 7.00 m
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Native
Sophora fulvida tree with masses of yellow flowers.

Sophora fulvida

Sophora fulvida (Southern Kōwhai) is a beautiful New Zealand native tree admired for its golden yellow flowers and fine green foliage. Flowering in spring, this kōwhai attracts native birds such as tūī and kererū, bringing life and colour to the garden.

From $169.24

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 4.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Native
Sophora longicarinata yellow flowers.
Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Sophora longicarinata is a rare and beautiful NZ native tree belonging to the kowhai family. This evergreen to semi deciduous species is admired for...

From$323.65
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
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
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
A lagre Podocarpus totara tree about 150 years of age.
Podocarpus totara

Podocarpus totara, commonly known as the Totara tree, is a majestic native tree of New Zealand, prized for its durable timber and cultural...

From$270.40
A Sophora chathamica tree growing in a garden with green foliage.
Sophora chathamica

Sophora chathamica (Coastal Kōwhai) is a stunning New Zealand native tree known for its masses of bright yellow flowers that appear in early spring...

From$323.65
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
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
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
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
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
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
Vitex lucens (Puriri) lush, green foliage.
Vitex lucens

Vitex lucens, commonly known as Puriri, is a striking New Zealand native tree prized for its lush foliage, vibrant pink to red tubular flowers, and...

From$270.40
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$28.91
Hoheria angustifolia green foliage with masses of white flowers.
Hoheria angustifolia

Hoheria angustifolia, commonly known as Houhere or Narrow leaved Lacebark, is a fast growing New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful form...

From$64.79
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
A Sophora godleyi specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora godleyi (Godleys Kowhai)

Sophora godleyi is a magnificent New Zealand native tree valued for its graceful weeping branches and bright yellow flowers that appear in spring...

From$323.65
Griselinia lucida hedge with lush and large, green foliage.
Griselinia lucida

Griselinia lucida, commonly known as Akapuka, is a striking New Zealand native shrub or small tree characterized by its large, leathery, and glossy...

From$24.95
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
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
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$24.77
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
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
Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and...

From$15.04
Cordyline australis trees growing as a cluster.
Cordyline australis

Cordyline australis, also known as the Cabbage Tree or tī kōuka, is a hardy and iconic New Zealand native. It features long, sword-like green leaves...

From$16.49
Sophora tetraptera (Large-leaved Kowhai) yellow flowers.
Sophora tetraptera (Large Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora tetraptera, commonly known as the Large Leaved Kowhai, is a striking New Zealand native tree admired for its bold foliage and spectacular...

From$24.15
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry) tree with masses of black berries.
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry)

Aristotelia serrata, commonly known as Wineberry or Makomako, is a fast-growing, deciduous native tree of New Zealand. It features serrated green...

From$22.01
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
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
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
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Agathis, Beilschmiedia, and Fuscospora, or related Categories - Evergreen Trees.

Search native tree species

The Value of Native Trees

Native tree species are the backbone of New Zealand’s ecosystems. By choosing to plant natives, gardeners and landowners contribute directly to the preservation of our environment. Natives are naturally adapted to local conditions, meaning they often require less water, fertiliser, and pest control than exotic trees. They provide vital habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife, helping maintain a balanced local ecosystem. Incorporating native trees also adds authenticity and sense of place to any landscape.

Iconic Examples of New Zealand Native Tree Species

Some native tree species are instantly recognisable and deeply woven into New Zealand’s identity. The mighty Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri) stands as one of the country’s most celebrated natives, renowned for its towering stature and resilience. For those seeking trees with lush, broad leaves, Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) offers abundant canopy cover and sustainability benefits. Sophora, the genus behind our beloved kowhai trees, includes the striking Sophora fulvida and the rare Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai), both known for their golden flowers and attraction to native birds like tui and bellbird.

Lesser-Known Native Tree Species

Beyond the familiar giants, New Zealand also boasts lesser-known native tree species that bring subtle charm and ecological diversity. The Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine) is a distinctive option, valued for its unique foliage and adaptability, making it suitable for both reforestation projects and urban gardens. Each of these trees contributes a piece to New Zealand’s natural mosaic, thriving in conditions from coastal dunes to limestone hills, and offering opportunities for creative and resilient planting.

Choosing and Planting Native Tree Species

Selecting the right native tree species depends on your site conditions, landscape goals, and the ecological benefits you wish to encourage. Consider factors such as soil type, sun exposure, and local wildlife when making your choices. Grouping complementary species together not only enhances visual appeal but also fosters ecological relationships that reinforce garden health and biodiversity.

Browse our collection of native tree species to discover the perfect match for your landscape. Whether you’re restoring a piece of bush, creating a wildlife haven, or simply enjoying the unique beauty of New Zealand’s flora, planting natives is a rewarding and sustainable investment.

Looking for specific species? Explore our listings for Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire), Sophora fulvida, Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai), Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri), and Phyllocladus trichomanoides (Celery Pine) for inspiration and guidance.

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.
It’s easy to pick Buxus sempervirens 'Silver Beauty' (Silver Boxwood) and Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum', but garden variety is all about adding surprises like Acer palmatum dissectum 'Viridis', Rose 'Flower Carpet Mini Cherry', and Camellia 'Ariel Song'.
–The Plant Company

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