Inspired by Nature – Part 1: Our Native Forests

Te Ngahere, the forest, the wilderness, there is nothing like a stroll or hike through the woods. The element of seclusion, the scents of the flora, the sounds of the wind brushing through the trees and the harmony of the birds singing through dappled sunshine with an undertone of a stream nearby. Sounds enchanting!

Living in Southland, we are spoilt with vast hectares of untouched natural beauty. Two national parks; Fiordland and Rakiura, furrowed coastlines, multiple rainforests and mountainous peaks. Our waterfalls are unmatched and native wildlife even more so. In the awe-inspiring words of Robert Louis Stevenson, “It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men’s hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit”.

So, for this segment, we will be featuring three of our spectacular native bush selection, so you can add that touch of wonder to your own landscape project and create your own native utopia with some Southern selections.

The New Zealand Marble Leaf is found throughout New Zealand forests. Also known as the Putaputāwētā meaning ‘Wētā Emerge’ being that the insects in the wild can live in the crevices of old trees. Valued for its traditional medicinal properties and attractive marbled leaf. Also, beautiful white summer flower.

  • Flowering medium sized NZ Native Evergreen
  • Charming marble-like leaf and attractive to birds and bees
  • Grows to 5 metres in garden environments

Nursery sizes currently available

A part of the Myrtle family, this tall forest tree has masses of crimson red flowers in summer. Most popularly inhabiting many areas of the South Island. Growing especially well on lake edges and coastal margins. Once used by Māori for its roots, used for Groper Hooks and the bark also used for cuts and wounds.

  • Flowering NZ Native Evergreen
  • Suitable for Native, coastal and feature planting
  • Grows to approximately 5×3 metres in garden environments

Nursery sizes currently available

Found commonly in the alpine regions the ‘Tāwhairauriki’ boasts smooth bark and sprays of small dark green leaves. Being a close relation to the European Fagus, the Nothofagus meaning ‘False Beech’ timber is highly prized for woodworking such as joinery, fine furniture, decorative floors and specialised products. It has also recently been given the name Fuscospora cliffortioides.

  • Cold hardy evergreen Native Tree
  • Suitable for Native screening and mass planting
  • Can grow to 8×4 metres in garden environments

Nursery sizes currently available

Therefore, for those sage moments of peace and tranquillity, why not build your own Native Forest. Disconnect from the urban world and connect with yourself and nature. Check out some of the Native Forest nearby for further inspiration.
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