Family: Tiliaceae
Common Name: Whau

This small, evergreen tree or shrub from New Zealand is available but not well known outside its native country. It has very light wood which is used by Maoris for fishing floats or building rafts.

Species

E. arborescens grows to 6 m (20 ft) and is recognized for its extremely light wood. The young, whitish foliage matures to jagged, hairy, 25 cm (10 in) long, mulberry-like leaves, with attractive veins. The white flowers, to 2.5 cm (1 in) across, have yellow stamens and are pro­duced in pendulous clusters.

Cultivation

Entelea does best in mild, coastal areas. Drainage must be good and the soil should be enriched with compost or manure. Water freely in dry summer weather. In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory. Propagate from seed sown in spring or from cuttings in summer.

Climate

Zone 9.