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Description
The Laurelia Novae-Zelandiae, commonly known as the New Zealand Laurel, is a flowering plant native to New Zealand. This evergreen tree is known for its thick, green foliage and fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and 10 meters wide, making it an excellent shade tree.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Laurales |
| Family | Atherospermataceae |
| Genus | Laurelia |
Appearance
The New Zealand Laurel has thick, dark green leaves that are glossy and oval in shape. The leaves are 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The tree produces fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit of the tree is a small berry that is purple-black in color and contains one seed.
Care Guide
The New Zealand Laurel prefers well-drained, moist soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may need more water in hotter climates. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. This tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The New Zealand Laurel is generally a healthy tree but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be attacked by scale insects and aphids, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The New Zealand Laurel is native to New Zealand and can be found in forests, along stream banks, and in other damp areas. It prefers cooler climates and is often found in the southern part of the North Island and the northern part of the South Island.
Question and Answer
1. Is the New Zealand Laurel a fast-growing tree?
Answer: No, the New Zealand Laurel is a slow-growing tree.
2. Can the New Zealand Laurel be used for timber?
Answer: Yes, the wood of the New Zealand Laurel is used for furniture, flooring, and other decorative purposes.
3. Does the New Zealand Laurel produce fruit every year?
Answer: No, the tree produces fruit every 2-3 years.
4. Can the New Zealand Laurel tolerate frost?
Answer: Yes, the New Zealand Laurel is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate frost.
Related Plants
- Laurelia sempervirens
- Laurelia philippiana
- Laurelia glandulifera
- Laurelia novoguineensis
References
- Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand. (n.d.). Laurelia novae-zelandiae – New Zealand laurel. https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/1685/laurelia-novae-zelandiae-new-zealand-laurel
- Wikipedia. (2021, January 4). Laurelia novae-zelandiae. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laurelia_novae-zelandiae
