Karaka, New Zealand Laurel
Corynocarpus laevigatus
Family: Corynocarpaceae
What it is like
An evergreen tree. It grows 6-9 m high but can be 16-20 m high. The trunk can be 60 cm across. The crown is dense and rounded. The leaves are broad and leathery. They can be 7-20 cm long. The flowers are small and yellow and occur in clusters. The fruit are orange-yellow. They are 1.8-3.8 cm long. Each contains a large highly poisonous seed. It was eaten after careful treatment.
There are 6 Corynocarpus species. They occur in the Pacific region.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate to subtropical climate plant. They grow in lowland coastal situations in New Zealand. They can cope with salt spray. They are frost tender. They need moist, well drained soils. It suits plant hardiness zones 9-11. Hobart Botanical Gardens. In Melbourne Botanical Gardens.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Britain, Europe, Hawaii, New Zealand (country/location of origin), Pacific, Tasmania, Vanuatu
How it is used for food
CAUTION: The seed are highly poisonous unless carefully treated. The kernel was ground and baked. The flesh covering is removed then the kernels boiled in water for 3-4 hours. The kernels are then steeped in cold water for a week. They are then ready to be eaten. The pulp of the fruit is eaten.
Edible parts
Nuts, seeds, fruit
How it is grown
They can be grown by seed or cuttings.