March 4, 2024
Kōtukutuku can grow up to 12 meters in height and has a distinctive flaky bark. The leaves are oval-shaped, with serrated edges, and have a dark green colour.
Kōtukutuku, also known as the tree fuchsia or Fuchsia excorticata, is a tree species native to New Zealand. It can grow up to 12 meters in height and has a distinctive flaky bark. The leaves are oval-shaped, with serrated edges, and have a dark green colour.
Kōtukutuku is found in various habitats throughout New Zealand, including forests, wetlands, and stream banks. It prefers moist and shaded areas.
Kōtukutuku has cultural significance to Māori. The tree provided a food source, as the berries were eaten when ripe. The inner bark was also used for weaving and making clothing and baskets.
Kōtukutuku provides habitat and food for native birds, such as tui and bellbirds, which feed on the nectar-rich flowers and the berries. The tree also contributes to the stability of stream banks and helps prevent erosion.
Silvereye: Silvereyes are small passerine birds with a distinctive white eye ring. They forage for insects and consume nectar from Kōtukutuku flowers.
Fantail: Fantails, or Pīwakawaka, are agile birds known for their fan-shaped tail and acrobatic flight. They may be seen in Kōtukutuku habitats catching insects.
Kākāriki: Kākāriki visit Kōtukutuku trees for their nectar. They also forage for insects and seeds in the tree's foliage.
Tomtit: Tomtits are small birds with distinctive markings. They may forage on Kōtukutuku trees' branches and leaves for insects and spiders.
Grey Warbler: Grey Warblers, or Riroriro, are tiny birds with melodious songs. They may search for insects on Kōtukutuku foliage while constructing their delicate nests.
New Zealand Pigeon: New Zealand Pigeons, or Kererū, are plump, fruit-eating birds. They may feed on Kōtukutuku fruits and disperse its seeds.
Morepork: Moreporks, or Ruru, are nocturnal owls with a distinctive call. They inhabit areas with Kōtukutuku trees and hunt for prey like insects and small mammals.
Kōtukutuku is not currently listed as a threatened species. However, local populations can be affected by habitat loss, invasive species, and browsing by introduced pests.
To support the conservation of Kōtukutuku and other native plants, you can participate in local habitat restoration projects, avoid the spread of invasive species, and promote the use of native plants in landscaping.
Kōtukutuku can grow up to 12 meters in height and has a distinctive flaky bark. The leaves are oval-shaped, with serrated edges, and have a dark green colour.
