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nz native shade plants

Transform your shady garden spots with the beauty and resilience of NZ native shade plants. These unique plants are specially adapted to thrive in lower light conditions, making them ideal for under large trees, along the south side of homes, or in any spot where the sun peeks through only occasionally. Celebrate Aotearoa's incredible biodiversity by choosing New Zealand native shade plants that bring lush foliage, interesting textures, and year-round interest to even the darkest corners of your garden.

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Carpodetus serratus

Carpodetus serratus, commonly known as the Putaputaweta Tree or Marble Leaf, is an attractive, NZ native tree with spreading branches that host marbled foliage. It grows with an open framework, though the juvenile form tends to have distinctly tangled growth and a greater degree of leaf marbling. It typically grows to 8 m in height and 3 m in width, performing best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. Carpodetus serratus is commonly grown as a specimen, added to a mixed planting in a large garden, or included in revegetation and native projects.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 8.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Hardy, Shade
Garden uses: Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Dianella nigra plant with masses of blue berries.

Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

5 from 2 customers

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 colour from blue, white, to deep purple. They are held amidst the strap-like, glossy green leaves. Dianella nigra typically grows to 40 cm tall and 50 cm wide, and is commonly included in a mixed planting or border, used in cottage gardens, or mass planted either on a bank or as a groundcover.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 40 cm
Spread: 50 cm
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Paths & Steps, Ponds
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
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
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$28.91
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$18.63
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
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$16.95
Carpodetus serratus prostrata plant with horizontal stems and marbled leaves.
Carpodetus serratus prostrata

Carpodetus serratus prostrata, commonly known as prostrate Marble Leaf or prostrate Putaputaweta, is a low-growing, NZ native shrub that is often...

From$27.53
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
Melicytus ramiflorus (Mahoe) tree with lush, green foliage.
Melicytus ramiflorus

Melicytus ramiflorus, commonly known as Mahoe or Whiteywood, is a mid-sized, NZ native tree featuring lush foliage which is bright green and tends to...

From$27.53
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
Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Carex 'Everlime' (Lime Grass Plant)

Carex ‘Everlime’ (Japanese Sedge) is a popular evergreen sedge valued for its graceful arching green foliage edged with bright lime cream margins...

From$19.95
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
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
helichrysum-petiolare--3
Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant)

Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant) is a popular evergreen plant valued for its soft silver foliage and trailing growth habit. The attractive...

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
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
sorbus-scarlet-king-
Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ)

Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King is a variety of the commonly known, Mountain Ash, and is a small-sized, deciduous with impressive characteristics...

From$387.55
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$20.01
70-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 70% Shade (Shade Cloth For Plants)

This shade cloth for plants, which is also used as plant windbreaks, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 70%. Therefore, 30% of the wind or light...

From$499.80
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
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
chlorophytum-curly--2
Chlorophytum Curly (Curly Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum Curly, commonly known as the Curly Spider Plant or Airplane plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush, variegated, and...

From$22.01
aechmea-fasciata-
Aechmea fasciata (Urn Plant)

Aechmea fasciata is a colourful Bromeliad that features thick and leathery leaves that are striped with silver and dark green. They are borne as a...

From$44.09
portulaca-pizzaz-sunset-
Portulaca Pazzaz Sunset (Moss Rose Plant)

Portulaca Pazazz Sunset, commonly known as the Moss Rose plant, is a low-growing perennial with fabulous flowers. Bright orange and yellow flowers...

From$26.15
50-windbreak-roll-2
Windbreak - 50% (Garden Shade Cloth)

This green windbreak is also used as garden shade cloth and reduces light levels and windspeeds by 50%. Therefore, 50% of the wind or light will...

From$856.80
50-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 50% Shade (Shade Cloth)

This shade cloth which is also used as garden windbreak, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 50%. Therefore, 50% of the wind or light will still...

From$428.40
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 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$27.36
plant-pots-
2.5 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$37.44
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 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$48.96
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 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$5.76
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
Carpodetus serratus

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Carpodetus, Coprosma, and Corynocarpus, or related Categories - Flaxes, Groundcover Plants, and Evergreen Trees.

Search nz native shade plants

Why Choose NZ Native Shade Plants?

NZ native shade plants offer more than just visual appeal. They are perfectly adapted to New Zealand's unique environment, meaning they're generally low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and resistant to local pests and diseases. Planting native shade tolerant species encourages native wildlife, promotes biodiversity, and helps ensure your garden is resilient and thriving. Whether you're looking for architectural greenery, ground covers, or shrubs with colourful foliage, New Zealand natives deliver long-lasting impact.

Best NZ Native Shade Plants for Your Garden

If you're seeking to create a lush, layered look, NZ native shade plants offer plenty of diversity. Here are some standout options that bring your shady garden to life:

Pseudowintera colorata

Also known as horopito or pepper tree, Pseudowintera colorata is a stunning shrub with vibrant leaves edged in red and dotted with purple. Thriving in dappled light or shaded locations, it's an outstanding choice for adding colour and texture to a woodland garden or beneath larger trees.

Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

For a pop of blue and practical ground cover, Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry) is a favourite among NZ native shade plants. Its strappy green foliage and clusters of bright blue berries provide year-round interest while tolerating deep to partial shade.

Carex solandri

Grasses offer wonderful movement and contrast in a shade garden. Carex solandri is a hardy New Zealand native sedge that grows well in full or partial shade, making it excellent for mass planting under trees or as a filler between larger shrubs.

Carpodetus serratus

Known as putaputaweta or marbleleaf, Carpodetus serratus is a versatile small tree or large shrub well-suited to shady spots. Its delicate, patchwork leaves and graceful branching habit create a light, dappled look perfect for woodland gardens.

Laurelia novae-zelandiae

For creating a lush canopy in larger shaded gardens, Laurelia novae-zelandiae (pukatea) is a magnificent native tree. Thriving in moist, sheltered sites, it adds height and structure to any shaded landscape.

How to Plant and Care for NZ Native Shade Plants

Start with healthy, nursery-grown NZ native shade plants. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter to improve moisture retention and structure. Mulch well to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Most native shade plants appreciate regular watering as they establish and benefit from a top-up of compost or mulch each year.

With the right NZ native shade plants, you can transform every corner of your garden into a thriving nature haven, filled with the foliage, flowers, and fruit that make Aotearoa’s flora so remarkable. Explore our collection and create your own shady sanctuary today.


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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 Parthenocissus tricuspidata 'Veitchii' and Ficus benjamina variegata, but there’s a growing buzz around plants like Persimmon Fuyu, Acer rubrum 'Bowhall', and Phormium cookianum.
–The Plant Company

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