Elaeocarpus hookerianus
Family: Elaeocarpaceae
What it is like
Elaeocarpus hookerianus is an evergreen Tree. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Lowland to montane forest in North, South and Stewart Islands, southwards from latitude 35°south.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A blue/black dye is obtained from the plant (probably from the bark).
Dye: Plants that provide dyes.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors in the mildest parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Prefers a fertile humus-rich well-drained soil. Many members of this genus succeed outdoors in nearly frost-free areas if given a sheltered position such as a south or south-west facing wall.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. Seed can be very slow to germinate, sometimes taking 2 years or more. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of almost ripe shoots, August/September in a sandy soil in a frame. The leaves should be left on the stem..
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist