Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
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native trees for birds

Native trees for birds are essential for anyone wanting to invite New Zealand's unique birdlife into their garden or property. Planting native trees not only supports our beloved tūī, kererū, bellbirds, and silvereyes, but also helps restore local ecosystems and preserve our biodiversity. By selecting the right tree species, you can create a thriving food source and safe habitat for a variety of birds, while enjoying lush greenery and beautiful blooms right at home.

Knightia excelsa

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is an impressive NZ native tree featuring showy flowers and lush foliage. Unusual yet attractive, dark red flowers bloom across the tree in summer and are great for attracting birds. The flowers are complemented by long, narrow leaves that are mid-green and held densely on upright branches.

Buy Knightia excelsa

From $270.40

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 30.00 m

Spread: 8.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Coastal, Native

Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen tree produces glossy green leaves and clusters of small, fragrant flowers in spring, followed by orange fruit that attract kererū and other native birds.

Buy Hedycarya arborea

From $494.05

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 5.00 m

Spread: 3.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Garden uses: Ponds, Screening

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

Why Plant Native Trees for Birds?

Choosing native trees for birds provides year-round benefits. Many New Zealand birds rely on native trees for nectar, fruit, seeds, and shelter, especially as urbanisation reduces available habitats. Native trees are perfectly adapted to our soils and climate, making them low-maintenance and resilient. They are also less likely to become invasive or harbour pests compared to exotic trees.

Top Native Trees to Attract Birds

When selecting native trees for birds, aim for a mix that offers food sources throughout the year and varying canopy heights for shelter. Here are some of the best choices:

Knightia excelsa

Also known as rewarewa, [Knightia excelsa] offers striking, nectar-rich flowers in late spring that attract tūī and bellbirds. This evergreen grows tall with shiny leaves, adding structure and visual appeal to your garden.

Hedycarya arborea

The pigeonwood, [Hedycarya arborea], is well-loved by kererū who feast on its nutritious fruits. Its small flowers in spring provide nectar for insects and birds. Planting this tree will help support birds looking for high-energy food sources.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

A favourite of the kererū, [Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)] bears large, plum-like fruit that is highly sought after. The dense foliage of taraire offers excellent shelter and creates an attractive canopy.

Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)

Few sights are more iconic than native birds feeding from vibrant kowhai flowers. [Sophora longicarinata (Limestone Kowhai)] blooms in late winter to early spring, providing a vital nectar source when food is scarce, especially for tūī and bellbirds.

Alectryon excelsus

[Titoki], or [Alectryon excelsus], produces red berries relished by tūī, kererū, and silvereyes. This sturdy tree is excellent for providing both food and shelter, making it a staple in bird-friendly plantings.

Tips for Planting Native Trees for Birds

Plant trees in clusters or layered groups to mimic natural bush, offering protection and foraging options.
Include a mix of fruiting and flowering species for continuous bird activity year-round.
Avoid pesticides, as they can harm birds and reduce insect food sources.
Provide water for birds using a shallow dish or birdbath.

By prioritising native trees for birds, you can create a haven for New Zealand's endemic species while enhancing your landscape. Explore our full range of native trees to transform your garden into a bird-friendly sanctuary.

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.

native trees for birds

Knightia excelsa

Hedycarya arborea

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Why Plant Native Trees for Birds?