Description

Myrsine australis, commonly known as Red Matipo or Māpou, is a distinctive native New Zealand shrub or small tree that is widely recognized for its attractive foliage and hardy nature. It typically grows to a height of 3 to 6 meters, with a compact, bushy form. The tree is characterized by its reddish branches and smooth, leathery green leaves with wavy edges. These leaves often have a yellow-green to dark-green hue, with red mottling, adding to the plant's ornamental appeal.

The bark of mature trunks is grey, while the younger branches are notably reddish, a feature that distinguishes this plant. In late summer to early autumn, Myrsine australis produces tiny white flowers that are followed by small, dark purple-black fruits. These fruits are popular with native birds such as kererū, tui, and silvereye, making the tree an excellent choice for enhancing biodiversity in gardens and restoration projects.

Myrsine australis thrives in a variety of environments across New Zealand, from lowland forests to coastal scrublands.  It is commonly used in native restoration and revegetation projects, providing initial cover for the establishment of longer-lived plants.

This evergreen plant is drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in both sun and semi-shade. It makes an excellent dense hedge that can be easily trimmed into various shapes, or it can be used as a specimen plant in mixed borders. Myrsine australis is also a popular choice for riparian planting and under the canopy of pine plantations, where it can persist even in shaded conditions.