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Description
Myrsine Kermadecensis, commonly known as Kermadec Māhoe, is a small tree species that belongs to the primrose family, Primulaceae. It is endemic to the Kermadec Islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean, and is regarded as one of the rarest and most endangered plant species in New Zealand. The tree has a height of up to 8m and a trunk diameter of up to 30cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Myrsine |
Appearance
The Myrsine Kermadecensis tree has a unique appearance with glossy, dark green leaves that are 4-8cm long and 2-4cm wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the branches, and the tree produces small white flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The fruit of the tree is a small, fleshy berry that is 5-6mm in diameter and is green when unripe and black when mature.
Care Guide
To care for Myrsine Kermadecensis, it is recommended to use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade and needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every six months to maintain its growth and health. The tree is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myrsine Kermadecensis is susceptible to fungal diseases, including leaf spot and powdery mildew. It is also prone to insect infestations, such as scale insects and mealybugs, which can cause damage to the tree’s leaves and fruit. To prevent these problems, it is recommended to maintain good air circulation around the tree and to prune any infected or damaged branches.
Habitat
Myrsine Kermadecensis is native to the Kermadec Islands, which are located approximately 800km northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. The tree is found in lowland and montane forests and is adapted to the island’s subtropical climate. The tree is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and invasive species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Myrsine Kermadecensis a rare plant species?
A: Yes, Myrsine Kermadecensis is considered one of the rarest and most endangered plant species in New Zealand.
Q: What is the habitat of Myrsine Kermadecensis?
A: Myrsine Kermadecensis is native to the Kermadec Islands, which are located in the South Pacific Ocean.
Q: How tall can Myrsine Kermadecensis grow?
A: Myrsine Kermadecensis can grow up to 8m in height and have a trunk diameter of up to 30cm.
Q: What is the fruit of Myrsine Kermadecensis?
A: The fruit of Myrsine Kermadecensis is a small, fleshy berry that is 5-6mm in diameter and is green when unripe and black when mature.
Related Plants
- Myrsine Australis
- Myrsine Littoralis
- Myrsine Salicina
- Myrsine Urvillei
References
- Department of Conservation. (2021). Myrsine Kermadecensis. Retrieved from https://www.doc.govt.nz/nature/native-plants/myrsine-kermadecensis/
- Heenan, P. B., & de Lange, P. J. (2017). Myrsine Kermadecensis (Primulaceae), a new species from the Kermadec Islands. New Zealand Journal of Botany, 55(3), 289-296. doi: 10.1080/0028825X.2017.1281387
- Te Papa Tongarewa. (n.d.). Kermadec Māhoe. Retrieved from https://www.tepapa.govt.nz/discover-collections/read-watch-play/maori/kermadec-mahoe
