About

Griselinia lucida, commonly known as puka, akapuka, and shining broadleaf, is a species of shrub in the family Griseliniaceae. It is endemic to New Zealand. Its range mainly covers the North and South Islands. It typically grows epiphytically, meaning it grows on other plants, although it can also be found in coastal and rocky environments. It reaches 10 metres (30 feet) in maximum height. The leaves are large, thick, and glossy, and the roots are grooved and often grow downward until they reach the forest floor.

Griselinia lucida was first described by the German botanist Georg Forster in 1786. It is only one of two Griselinia species found in New Zealand. Pollination is likely achieved by insects or the wind. The fruits are dispersed by fruit-eating animals (frugivores), such as birds. Germination requires light and moist conditions.

Where it grows

Griselinia lucida's seeds are dispersed by fruit-eating animals (frugivores), such as birds. G. lucida's fruits are dispersed by bird species, which includes, but is not limited to: kererū (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae), New Zealand bellbirds (Anthornis melanura), silvereyes (Zosterops lateralis), and tūī (Prosthemadera novaeseelandiae). The North Island kōkako (Callaeas wilsoni) browse the leaves and buds of the plant, and may also consume the fruits. Pollination is likely achieved by insects or the wind. Bees occasionally visit the flowers to collect nectar. Germination of the seed requires light and moist conditions.

Uses

The indigenous Māori people had few uses of G. lucida, but they did use the wood in the making of cartridge holders. In traditional medicinal practices, the inner bark is said to have soothing characteristics for skin conditions. The inner bark is similar to that found on G. littoralis. European settlers used the wood in constructing fence-posts and in work by millwrights.

Other Griselinia plants

Chilean Broadleaf · New Zealand Broadleaf · Griselinia