Knightia excelsa

(Salisb.) R. Br.

Rewarewa, New Zealand honeysuckle

Proteaceae Edible: Flower nectar 4,686 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Knightia excelsa, commonly known as rewarewa (from Māori), is an evergreen tree endemic to the low elevation and valley forests of New Zealand. It is found in the North Island and at the tip of the South Island in the Marlborough Sounds (41° S) and the type species for the genus Knightia.

Description

An evergreen tree. It grows 13 m high. The leaves are rich green and have teeth along the edge. The flowers are in spikes and are deep red.

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Edible Uses

The flowers are exceptionally rich in nectar, which can be extracted and eaten directly. The nectar contains approximately 45% sugars.

Medicinal Uses

No medicinal uses are known for this plant.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. It does best in a cool location. It can tolerate dry soil once established. Arboretum Tasmania.

Where It Grows

Australia, New Zealand*, Tasmania,

Cultivation

Succeeds in any well-drained fertile soil in sun or semi-shade. Requires protection from cold and drying winds. Plants tolerate very light and short-lived frosts, but they are best with a minimum winter temperature of about 3°c. Another report says that trees are hardy in south Cornwall. A very good bee plant.

Propagation

Sow seed in spring in a warm greenhouse. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough and grow on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant out into permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.

Other Uses

The wood is handsomely variegated and highly valued for superior woodwork, inlays, and similar fine applications.

References (3)

Crowe, A., 1997, A Field Guide to the Native Edible Plants of New Zealand. Penguin. p 50
Ryan, S., 2008, Dicksonia. Rare Plants Manual. Hyland House. p 35
Trans. Linn. Soc. London 10:194, t. 2. 1810