How to Grow New Zealand Laurel
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New Zealand Laurel
Corynocarpus laevigatus
treeNew Zealand laurel is an evergreen tree native to New Zealand, featuring glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small white flowers followed by orange-red berries. It grows as a medium to large shade tree, reaching 30-40 feet tall in ideal conditions. This ornamental tree is prized for its attractive foliage, year-round interest, and ability to provide excellent screening.
When should you plant New Zealand Laurel in your zone?
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Example New Zealand Laurel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant New Zealand Laurel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest New Zealand Laurel
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact New Zealand Laurel dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11; can be grown in zone 9a with protection
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Get my New Zealand Laurel timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 12 monthsYoung tree with tender growth, establishing root system and developing branching structure
Water deeply and regularly; stake if necessary in windy areas; apply 3-4 inches of mulch; avoid fertilizer in first year
Vegetative Growth
Year 2-3Tree develops stronger branching, glossy dark green foliage becomes established, rapid height and canopy expansion
Prune for shape and structure; maintain consistent moisture; fertilize monthly during growing season; remove any competing central leaders
Maturation
Year 4-6Tree reaches desired size with full canopy; flowering begins to occur sporadically
Reduce watering frequency as drought tolerance increases; light pruning to maintain shape; fertilize 2-3 times yearly
Flowering and Berry Production
Spring flowering, summer-fall berry maturationSmall white flowers appear in clusters, followed by decorative orange-red drupes
Minimal intervention needed; maintain tree health; no deadheading necessary; berries attract birds
Full Maturity
Year 7 onwardEstablished specimen tree providing year-round screening and ornamental interest with reliable flowering and fruiting
Minimal care needed; light pruning as needed; occasional deep watering during drought; remove dead wood
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil in early spring; prune heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators
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Spray with insecticidal soap; isolate severely infested plants; improve air circulation
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply fungicide if severe
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if infestation is severe
Uses
Ornamental Screening and Shade
HouseholdNew Zealand laurel's dense evergreen foliage makes it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens, windbreaks, and shade in warm climates. Its attractive form works well as a specimen tree or in groves for landscape structure. [source]
Bird Food and Habitat
WildlifeThe bright orange-red berries are highly attractive to birds, making this tree valuable for wildlife gardens. It provides both food and shelter for native and migratory bird species. [source]
Foliage for Floral Arrangements
CraftThe glossy, deep green leaves are prized by florists and arrangement designers for their attractive color and texture. Foliage remains fresh in water for extended periods. [source]
Traditional Māori Uses
MedicinalHistorically, Māori peoples used New Zealand laurel for various medicinal preparations, though modern use is limited due to the plant's toxic compounds. Historical ethnobotanical significance in indigenous cultures. [source]
Coastal Landscape Applications
HouseholdOnce established, New Zealand laurel demonstrates good salt tolerance and wind resistance, making it suitable for coastal gardens where many other trees struggle. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries are ornamental but contain toxic seeds (carbamate glycosides); do not harvest for consumption. Foliage can be cut for ornamental arrangements in late summer when mature. Remove dead wood and spent branches as needed throughout the year.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Despite its common name 'laurel,' New Zealand laurel is not related to true laurels and belongs to the Corynocarpaceae family, making it botanically unique.
- 🌱 The Māori people called this tree 'karaka' and valued it highly; its berries were traditionally processed to remove toxins before consumption, showing remarkable botanical knowledge.
- 🌱 The tree can live 100+ years in ideal conditions and was historically planted around Māori settlements throughout New Zealand, with some ancient specimens still standing today.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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