Rewarewa
Knightia excelsa
Family: Proteaceae
What it is like
Knightia excelsa is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 4 m (13ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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): 20
Where it is found
Lowland to montane forest in North Island and on the northern tip of South Island.
New Zealand.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
The flowers are very rich in nectar, this can be extracted and used as food. It contains about 45% sugars.
Nectar: produced in such abundance by some flowers that it can be harvested fairly easily.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Wood - handsomely variegated. Highly valued for superior woodwork, inlay etc.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife
How it is grown
Succeeds in any well-drained fertile soil in sun or semi-shade. Requires protection from cold and drying winds. Plants tolerate very light and short-lived frosts, but they are best with a minimum winter temperature of about 3°c. Another report says that trees are hardy in south Cornwall. A very good bee plant.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a warm greenhouse. 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.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 8-11
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist