Kōtukutuku

Fuchsia excorticata – tree fuchsia , New Zealand fuchsia – endemic to New Zealand

Kōtukutuku of the Tangihua forest are found.

not sure

Kōtukutuku description

Kōtukutuku is a fuchsia of which there are four species in New Zealand. Kōtukutuku is the largest fuchsia in the world and grows up to 14m. The Kōtukutuku is a secound growth tree in the regeneration series.

Kōtukutuku leaves and bark

Kōtukutuku is semi deciduous, unusual for a New Zealand plant. The semi depends on the temperature, in warmer climates e.g Northland it varies The leaves are

The bark is distinctive, orange-brown bark, which is papery and peeling.

Kōtukutuku Flowers and fruit

The flowers are typically fuchsia shaped and hang down.

the flowers occur in two forms, both occur together in the same vicinity but not on the same tree. The flowers are mostly borne among the leaves but are also on larger branches and even on the trunk.

1. A hermaphrodite (both male and female).Tthey are green and purple when young changing to red, late winter to early Spring. the pollen is a deep purple which is unusual
2. This is a female folower with short stamanes

They are green and purple when young changing to red, late winter to early Spring. the pollen is a deep purple which is unusual

The small dark purple berry is sweet and juicy

Uses

Maori called the fruit Konini and enjoyed eating it

Conservation

possums love Kōtukutuku and will browse individual trees to the point of extinction

solution

intensive possum control