Kamahi (Weinmannia racemosa)
At a glance
- Lifecycle
- Perennial (hardy)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Frost limit
- −6.7 °C
Cultivation
Prefers a light rich soil. Plants are not very frost-tolerant, though they are probably hardy in the mildest areas of the country. The foliage of this tree when an adult is markedly different from the juvenile foliage, though plants begin to flower whilst still in the juvenile form.
Propagation
Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a warm greenhouse. Prick the seedlings out into individual pots when they are large enough to handle. Overwinter the young plants in a greenhouse for at least the first winter and plant out in their permanent positions in late spring or early summer. Give some protection for its first winter outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 8cm with a heel, July/August in a frame.
Edible uses
Fruit - raw. A sweet and pleasant flavour.
Material uses
A black dye is obtained from the bark. The bark contains about 13% tannin. Wood. Used in cabinet making.
Habitat
Lowland to montane forest, North, South and Stewart islands.
Native range
New Zealand.
Scientific synonyms Pterophylla racemosa