Description

Geniostoma ligustrifolium, commonly known as hangehange, is a bushy, fast-growing shrub native to New Zealand, predominantly found in coastal and lowland forests throughout the North Island and in Marlborough. This versatile plant can reach a height of up to 4 meters and is known for its slender, brittle branches adorned with bright lime-green, shiny, oval leaves. These leaves are soft, thin, and measure 4 to 8 centimeters in length, adding a fresh, vibrant appearance to any garden or forest setting.

Hangehange produces small, greenish-white flowers in clusters at the base of its leaves during late spring. These flowers are slightly hairy and emit a sweet fragrance, reminiscent of vanilla or hyacinth, which lingers in the air during the evening or in still weather. The plant's flowering period is followed by the development of dry black capsules in late summer, which split open to reveal small, bright orange seeds.

This shrub is commonly used in lush gardens as a filler, screen, or underplanting beneath taller trees due to its unfussy nature and quick growth. It trims well, making it suitable for garden edges or as part of a diverse forest understorey. Hangehange is also valued for its ecological role, providing an important source of nectar and fruit for native birds like the hihi.

Geniostoma ligustrifolium thrives in a variety of conditions but is particularly well-suited to coastal and lowland forest environments. Its ability to blend into the background while still adding to the overall diversity of a landscape makes it a valuable addition to any garden or natural planting scheme.