Description

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as Rewarewa, is a striking evergreen tree native to New Zealand. This tree is known for its narrow, columnar form, similar to a poplar, making it an ideal choice for planting in restricted areas where height is desired. Reaching impressive heights, Rewarewa features large, long, heavily serrated, leathery leaves that add a bold texture to the landscape. The leaves are lanceolate to linear in shape with a toothed margin, and the young branches and undersides of the leaves are covered in a distinctive rusty brown tomentum.

In early summer, Knightia excelsa produces unusual, bottlebrush-like racemes of red-brown flowers that are rich in nectar, attracting a variety of nectar-seeking birds such as tui and bellbirds. These flowers not only enhance the tree's visual appeal but also contribute to the production of excellent honey, making it a valuable plant for both wildlife and beekeepers.

Rewarewa is highly adaptable and resilient, thriving in poor soils, light frosts, and strong winds. This makes it an excellent choice as a street tree, as well as for planting in areas with challenging growing conditions. It is one of the first large trees to establish on newly disturbed ground, particularly in poor clay soils, and it prefers full sunlight to reach its full potential.