Family: Violaceae

Native to New Zealand and some Pacific regions, these small trees and shrubs are grown for their lovely, toothed foliage and attractive, bright blue berries, borne along the branches. Male and female trees are required for fruit production.

Species

Not all of these are available outside their countries of origin.

M. lanceolatus, which grows 5-6 m (16-20 ft) tall, has bright green, willow-like foliage. It can tolerate cold conditions.

M. macrophyllus has very attractive, toothed foliage. M. routiflorus, mahoe, grows to 10 m (33 ft), its trunk clothed in white bark. The green flowers are followed by a profusion of violet-blue berries.

Cultivation

Melicytus will grow in any reasonably rich, well-drained soil and can be planted in either a sunny or a shaded site. Although at their best if sheltered, some species will tolerate strong winds. Propagate from seed sown in spring under glass or from semi-ripe cuttings in summer. In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool greenhouse.

Climate

Warmer parts of zone 9.