Titoki Tree NZ

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

The titoki tree (Alectryon excelsus) is a beloved native tree in New Zealand, renowned not only for its striking appearance but also for its significance in Māori culture. This evergreen tree is well-suited to various landscapes and offers numerous benefits, making it a popular choice for both residential gardens and larger plantations. In this guide, we'll explore the unique characteristics of the titoki tree and its ideal uses in your garden.

Alectryon excelsus

Alectryon excelsus, commonly known as the Titoki tree, is a handsome New Zealand native tree valued for its lush, glossy foliage and tidy, rounded form. Growing 6–10 metres tall, it makes an excellent shade or specimen tree in both urban and rural settings. Titoki is wind-tolerant, frost-hardy in most areas, and well-suited to coastal conditions. Its inconspicuous flowers are followed by striking red and black fruit, which attracts native birds and adds seasonal interest to New Zealand gardens and landscapes.

Buy Alectryon excelsus

From $22.98

A fantastic Titoki tree (Alectryon excelsus) growing as a speciment tree in an urban park.

Suited to regions:
Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:
Trees
Height:
8.00 m
Spread:
3.00 m
Flowering time:
Summer
Tolerances:
Shade, Wind
Garden uses:
Hedging, Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles:
Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Modern, Native

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Features of the Titoki Tree

The titoki tree is known for its glossy dark green leaves, which can grow up to 15 cm long. This impressive foliage offers a beautiful backdrop for the clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that blossom in the spring. The flowers, followed by distinctive red fruit, provide an eye-catching display throughout the year. With a growth height of up to 15 meters, the titoki tree makes an excellent shade provider and can serve as a focal point in a variety of garden designs.

One of the standout aspects of the titoki tree is its adaptability to different soil types, provided they are well-draining. This resilience makes it an ideal candidate for dry areas, coastal regions, and even urban gardens. Its strong timber is also prized for making furniture and crafts, further enhancing its desirability in various applications.

Cultural Significance of the Titoki Tree

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the titoki tree holds an important place in Māori tradition. The Māori people have long valued the titoki for both its timber and its seeds. The seeds were formerly used to make traditional Māori food preparations and have been a source of nutrition. Additionally, the tree's bark has been harnessed for its medicinal properties, pointing to a deep-rooted relationship with nature that has persisted for centuries.

The titoki tree's cultural importance can be a meaningful addition to your garden, especially if you're interested in incorporating native plants into your landscape. By planting a titoki tree, you not only beautify your space but also honor the rich heritage of New Zealand's flora.

Planting and Care Tips

Planting a titoki tree in your garden is straightforward, but a few key considerations will ensure its healthy growth. Select a sunny spot with good airflow and well-draining soil. When planting, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, and consider adding organic matter to encourage robust development. Regular watering is essential during the first year to help establish the roots.

Once established, the titoki tree requires minimal maintenance. Pruning is only necessary to shape the tree or remove any dead branches. Allowing the tree to grow naturally is often the best approach, as this helps maintain its attractive form.

For gardeners looking to expand their collection of native trees, pairing the titoki tree with other stunning varieties can create a diverse landscape. Consider some elegant combinations with trees like Magnolia Holywell or Magnolia Gere, which can provide contrasting colors and textures. Additionally, the flowering beauty of Malus John Downie can add seasonal interest to your garden.

Conclusion

The titoki tree is truly a treasure of New Zealand's natural heritage. Its beauty, cultural significance, and adaptability make it an ideal addition to any garden. Whether you're creating a native plant sanctuary or looking to enhance your existing landscape, the titoki tree is sure to impress. Embrace this iconic species and enjoy the many benefits it brings to your outdoor space.

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.