Kohe, Wahahe, Kohekohe
Dysoxylum spectabile
Family: Meliaceae
What it is like
A tree with a stout column like trunk. It grows about 8 m high. The crown is rounded. The leaves are large and glossy. They have leaflets along the stalk. The flowers are greenish-white and waxy and hang in droops. They grow on the trunks and branches. They can be 30 cm long. The fruit capsule has 3-4 cells. They are 2.5 cm across. It opens after 15 months to reveal 2 seeds in a fleshy red aril.
Where it is found
It grows in lowland and coastal regions in New Zealand. It is mostly in damp locations. It is best in deep, moist loam soils. It needs a protected, sunny position. It is resistant to frost and damaged by drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, New Zealand (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The leaves have been used as a substitute for hops.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. Seed germinate easily.
It is fast growing.