Family: Corynocarpaceae

The species of this genus are native to New Guinea, north-eastern Australia and New Caledonia. The trees were probably introduced to New Zealand from Vanuata or New Caledonia. In times past, the nut-like kernels of some of the species were used as food by the Maoris and the trunks were used for building canoes.

Species

C. laevigatus, karaka, is the New Zealand evergreen tree which grows to about 10 m (33 ft). It has shiny, oval leaves; long, stiff sprays of white flowers from late winter to early summer; and fleshy, plum-like, orange fruits, about 2 cm (¾ in) in diameter, in autumn. Cultivar 'Albovariegatus' is a silver-variegated form. These slow-growing forms rarely grow taller than 2 m (6 ft) and are suited to container growing.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, use a warm greenhouse or conservatory. Slower-growing forms are suitable. Propagate from seed in spring and germinate with bottom heat. Outdoors grow in sun or partial shade.

Climate

This genus requires at least zone 10.