Details:

Aristotelia serrata, commonly called Makomako or Wineberry, is a fast-growing, small deciduous tree. Attractive rose-coloured flowers in spring. Black berries in summer are highly sought after by native birds. Good shade tree in sheltered areas. Frost-tender when young, however hardy once mature.

Delicate, rose coloured flowers in early spring result in dark red berries in summer which are great for attracting birds. It has serrated, green leaves which may develop a purple hue, and typically grows to 5 m tall and 4 m wide. Wineberry is commonly used as a smaller specimen tree, trimmed into a hedge, or used for screening and shelter.

Best results with this tree are achieved when it is planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It will tolerate cool climates and moderate frost once established, as well as most soil conditions but only short periods of dry.

Habitat: Lowland to montane forests. Often forming dense thickets following disturbance.

Flowering: Spring [September - December]
Fruiting:    Summer [January - March]

Tag: Rongoa