Kirkophytum lyallii

Family: Araliaceae

What it is like

Kirkophytum lyallii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 6in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. 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): 0.2

Where it is found

Only found on the Titi Islands just off Stewart Island.

New Zealand.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - cooked.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

How it is grown

We have almost no information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, but judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. We have no idea what its cultivation requirements might be. The flowers can be monoecious or hermaphrodite.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but suggest sowing the seed in a greenhouse in early spring. 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. Division in spring could be worth trying.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Stilbocarpa lyallii. J.B.Armst.