Description
Myrsine australis, commonly known as mapou or New Zealand myrsine, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It typically grows up to 10 meters tall in coastal and lowland forests, often found in damp or shaded environments. The tree features dark green, leathery leaves and produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in spring, which develop into small, round, purple-black fruits. These fruits are an important food source for native birds. Myrsine australis is valued for its hardiness, ability to tolerate a range of soil types, and its role in habitat restoration, providing shelter and food for wildlife.
