Karaka
Karaka is a medium-sized species that can grow up to 20 metres tall. The tree has large, dark, glossy leaves growing up to 25cm long. The tree produces orange-yellow fruit that contains a single seed.
.png)
What to know before you plant
The essentials — how big it gets, how fast it grows, and where it sits in the forest.
Mature height (m)
Mature spread (m)
Successional stage
Form
Mature DBH (cm)
Description
Karaka is a medium-sized species that can grow up to 20 metres tall. The tree has large, dark, glossy leaves growing up to 25cm long. The tree produces orange-yellow fruit that contains a single seed.
Habitat
Karaka is often found in lowland coastal areas of New Zealand’s North Island and towards the top of the South Island.
Cultural Importance
Karaka has significant cultural importance to Māori, who have traditionally used the tree for various purposes. The fruit was an important food source, and the wood was used for carving and making tools.
Ecological Role
Karaka is vital to New Zealand's forest ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various bird and insect species. The fruit is significant to our native birds.
Associated Birds
Tui: Tui are known to feed on the nectar of Karaka flowers, attracted by their bright orange-red colour.
Silvereye: These small birds might feed on insects attracted to Karaka trees or occasionally nibble on the tree's fruits.
Whitehead: These insectivorous birds might forage on Karaka trees for insects.
North Island Robin (Toutouwai): Robins could search for insects and spiders on Karaka tree trunks and leaves.
Tomtit: Tomtits explore Karaka trees for insects and spiders.
Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): Kererū are known to feed on the fruits of Karaka trees, aiding in seed dispersal.
Grey Warbler (Riroriro): These small birds, known for their melodious songs, might find insects and spiders among the foliage of Karaka trees.
Bellbird (Korimako): Bellbirds might visit Karaka trees for nectar, attracted by their flowers.
Shining Cuckoo: These migratory cuckoos might visit Karaka trees during their breeding season to lay their eggs.
Conservation status
Karaka is not considered to be a threatened species.
Interesting Facts
- Karaka fruit is toxic when fresh but can be made edible through roasting and soaking.
- Karaka seeds were historically used as a form of currency by Māori.
- The wood of Karaka is highly valued for its durability and has been used for boat building and construction.
Conservation Tips
Karaka is a resilient species that are not currently threatened. However, it is essential to be mindful of the impacts of land use change and development on the ecosystems where it grows. Sustainable land management practices, such as erosion control and reforestation, can help to protect and restore karaka habitats. Additionally, care should be taken to avoid overharvesting the fruit and ensure it is adequately prepared before consumption.
Growing conditions
Moisture
Soil
Drainage
Frost tolerance
Wind tolerance
Coastal tolerance
What this tree gives back
Food for native birds
Fruit, seeds or nectar that feed native birds.
Supports pollinators
Flowers that sustain native bees and insects.
Erosion control
Roots that bind soil and hold slopes together.
Suits riparian planting
Thrives along stream and river margins.
Suits wetland planting
Handles the wet ground of wetland sites.
More native trees
Explore other species
Ready to plant natives?
Assess your land and discover the right planting approach for your forest.
