How to Grow Pukatea

Pukatea

Laurelia novae-zelandiae

tree

Pukatea is a large evergreen native tree of New Zealand's forests, known for its distinctive aromatic foliage and impressive size. It produces small greenish flowers and winged seeds, and is valued for both its ornamental qualities and ecological importance. The tree has been traditionally used by Māori people for medicinal purposes.

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Example Pukatea timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Pukatea
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Pukatea
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pukatea dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Partial shade to dappled sunlight; tolerates full shade but grows more vigorously with some light

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Water: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and dry periods. Prefers humid conditions; benefits from regular watering but avoid waterlogging

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Spacing: 240 inches

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Days to maturity: 2000

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Planting depth: Level with soil surface; plant container trees without burying the root collar

Soil

Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with good organic matter content

pH: 5.5-7.0

Amendments:

Compost or aged bark mulch Peat moss or coconut coir Coarse sand for drainage if soil is heavy

Growing Zones

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Thrives in warm temperate to subtropical zones (9b-11), preferring mild climates with consistent moisture

9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Seedling

6-12 months

Young seedlings with simple leaves, very delicate and slow-growing, emerging from seed

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide dappled shade; protect from frost and wind damage

Juvenile

3-5 years

Establishing root system and gradual height growth; foliage becomes more dense and fragrant

Continue regular watering; mulch to retain moisture; protect from harsh weather; minimal pruning needed

Maturing

5-15 years

Tree develops characteristic form and fuller canopy; begins producing flowers after several years of growth

Maintain consistent watering; allow natural branching; thin overcrowded branches if needed; watch for pests

Flowering

2-4 weeks

Small, inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in spring, clustered among the aromatic foliage

No special care needed; flowering indicates tree maturity; maintain steady moisture and light conditions

Fruiting and Seed Production

3-4 months

Winged seeds develop after flowering; seeds ripen and disperse via wind

Allow natural seed dispersal or collect seeds for propagation; no special care required at this stage

Companion Planting

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Plant with:

Rimu Kahikatea Totara Tree ferns Native understory shrubs Moss and epiphytic plants

Avoid planting near:

Aggressive root systems that compete heavily for water Plants requiring full sun and dry conditions

Common Pests

Prune affected branches; apply horticultural oil in spring; monitor regularly for early detection
Generally not severe; prune damaged foliage; maintain tree vigor through proper care
Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; remove affected leaves; apply fungicide if severe

Uses

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Traditional Māori remedies

Medicinal

Pukatea has been traditionally used by Māori healers for various medicinal purposes, particularly for treating respiratory and digestive ailments. The aromatic foliage contains volatile oils with potential therapeutic properties. [source]

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Natural fragrance and aromatics

Household

The distinctive aromatic foliage can be used to create natural fragrances, essential oils, or dried herbal preparations. The leaves release a pleasant spicy scent when brushed or crushed. [source]

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Native bird and insect habitat

Wildlife

Pukatea provides shelter, nesting sites, and food sources for native New Zealand birds and insects. It attracts native species and supports forest ecosystem biodiversity. [source]

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Ornamental and landscape use

Craft

With its attractive evergreen foliage, natural form, and ecological value, Pukatea is used as an ornamental specimen tree in gardens and restoration plantings. It is particularly valued in native plant gardens. [source]

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Culinary flavoring agent

Culinary

The aromatic foliage can be used as a subtle flavoring in cooking and beverages, similar to bay leaves. It imparts a unique spicy, herbal note to dishes. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Pukatea is not harvested for fruit or vegetable production. Seeds can be collected in autumn when ripe and dispersed naturally or collected for propagation. Foliage can be gently harvested for aromatic use without harming the tree.

Fun Facts

🌱 Pukatea is named from the Māori word 'Pukatea' and is one of the most aromatic native New Zealand trees, with foliage that releases a distinctive spicy fragrance when handled.
🌱 Historically, Pukatea was used by Māori to create medicines and was part of traditional healing practices for centuries before European settlement.
🌱 The tree can grow quite large in its native forest habitat, reaching heights of 20+ meters, making it an impressive feature in suitable growing conditions.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Mulch Partial Shade

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