Ngaio Tree
myoporum laetum
Also known as: ["Ngaio","Tree Ngaio"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to New Zealand, known for its glossy leaves and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Myoporum |
| Botanical Name: | Myoporum laetum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or sunny, open spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure bright light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers warm, frost-free conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop in fall to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, remove dead/damaged growth, encourage bushier form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune at the right time, remove dead wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, apply slowly to allow deep penetration, ensure excess water drains away, and water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in temperatures below 25°F (-4°C).
Solution: Protect with frost cloth; move indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in prolonged heat above 95°F (35°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use correct dilution, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Myoporum laetum. The plant's compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and neurological symptoms, posing a serious health risk to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Myoporum laetum by dogs can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances. The toxic compounds affect the dog's digestive and nervous systems, causing distress and potential long-term health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMyoporum laetum contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's leaves and berries contain substances that interfere with normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Myoporum laetum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does the Ngaio Tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Myoporum laetum?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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