Māhoe

Description

Māhoe (Melicytus ramiflorus) is a valuable addition to native restoration, particularly in sheltered riparian zones. While commonly seen as a hardy pioneer, in the Waikato it can be slower to establish and is frost-tender when young — but with the right conditions, it becomes a strong mid-canopy contributor.

• Riparian Specialist: Naturally found hanging on along stream banks where other species have been cleared.
• Biodiversity Booster: Birds are drawn to its purple berries, and its foliage offers excellent habitat.
• Sheltered Site Starter: Prefers protection from frost and wind while getting established.

How to Use It
• Best suited to riparian planting or under the shelter of hardy nurse species.
• Fruits around the same time as tōtara, supporting second-generation regeneration by feeding seed-dispersing birds.
• Great for enhancing structure and diversity in later-stage or second-phase plantings.

Māhoe might take a little patience in the Waikato, but once established, it’s a rewarding and ecologically valuable addition to your planting project.

Availability