Ngaio, Mousehole Tree

Frost Tolerance: Damaged at 25°F (-4°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Coastal New Zealand

Growth Habits: Evergreen shrub or small tree, up to 20 feet tall (6 m), 10 feet spread (3 m); fragrant, lance-shaped, serrate, glagrous leaves, 2 to 6 inches long (5-15 cm)

Watering Needs: Moderate water, well-drained soil, tolerates sea-side exposure and salt-spray

Propagation: Seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

The species epithet 'laetum' is from the Latin for 'cheerful, joyous'.

Blooming Habits:
Fragrant white flowers, spotted with purple, 0.6 to 0.8 inch in diameter (1.5-2 cm) in late June.

Fruiting Habits:
The oblong, reddish fruits are edible with caution, they are some reports of them being slightly toxic for the liver.