Elaeocarpus hookerianus

Elaeocarpus hookerianus Details

Elaeocarpus hookerianus, commonly known as Pokaka, is a canopy-forming tree which tends to inhabit swamps and marshlands. Soils in these environments tend to be wet during winter and somewhat drier in summer. The interesting aspect of this plant is its twisted form in the juvenile state which may last for several years. In this form the tree has only small leaves. As the tree mature larger, green foliage emerges. Small, pale yellow flowers in spring result in a purple fruit which attracts birds. This tree will typically grow to 12-15 tall and spread 8 m wide, growing best when positioned in full sun or partial shade on a site that does not dry out. Elaeocarpus hookerianus is often used for revegetation projects or planted as an unusual specimen in a large garden.