During hotter months, moving the plant to a location with filtered sunlight can prevent leaf burn. Using shade cloth or positioning under larger trees helps create an ideal microclimate for its development.

New Zealand laurel (Corynocarpus laevigatus)

Also known as: Karaka

The fruit of the New Zealand laurel tree (*Corynocarpus laevigatus*) can be consumed, but several precautions are necessary due to its toxic nature:

1. **Do Not Eat Fresh Kernels:** The kernels contain toxins and are dangerous if eaten raw.
2. **Detoxification Process:** Indigenous Moriori people have developed intricate methods to detoxify the fruit, involving extensive cooking, soaking, and sometimes fermentation.
3. **Follow Traditional Methods:** Adhering strictly to these traditional preparation methods is crucial, as any mistake can lead to serious health issues.
4. **Exercise Caution:** Even after proper preparation, consume the fruit sparingly to minimize any potential risks.

Always prioritize safety and consult experts familiar with safe preparation techniques.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of New Zealand laurel

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

15 m

Spread

8 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

4 mm to 5 mm

Flower Color

Yellow Pink Green

Images of New Zealand laurel

Quickly Identify New Zealand laurel

Narrow, upright growth reaching 25 to 40 feet (7.6 to 12.2 meters)

Oblong, glossy dark green leaves with sleek texture

Distinctive dark sheath in each leaf axil, shaped by fused stipules

Scientific Classification of New Zealand laurel

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Cucurbitales

Family

Karaka

Genus

Corynocarpus

Species

New Zealand laurel

Planting and Growing of New Zealand laurel

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water New Zealand laurel?

Corynocarpus laevigatus thrives when its soil is moist but not waterlogged. Watering with about 500 ml each session usually keeps the soil in the ideal condition. Ensure the surface is dry before re-watering to avoid root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered New Zealand laurel? ›

What should I do if my New Zealand laurel is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered New Zealand laurel? ›

How to save an overwatered New Zealand laurel? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for New Zealand laurel?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Corynocarpus laevigatus benefits from partial sun exposure, balancing between 4 to 6 hours daily. Such conditions foster robust growth, lush leaf color, and comprehensive health by facilitating effective photosynthesis while preventing stress.

Preferred Environment ›

Light Adjustment ›

Seasonal Considerations ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for New Zealand laurel?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

Corynocarpus laevigatus thrives best in temperatures between 60°F and 77°F. This range provides optimal conditions for photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and overall metabolic function. In this temperature bracket, the plant experiences robust growth and maintains its vigor and health.

What Soil is Best for New Zealand laurel?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Corynocarpus laevigatus prefers well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Ensuring good drainage enhances root health and promotes vigorous growth. Incorporating organic matter into the soil improves its structure, providing essential nutrients and enhancing microbial activity that benefits Corynocarpus laevigatus. While drainage is essential, the soil should retain some moisture. Sandy loam with organic content provides the right balance, keeping the plant hydrated but not waterlogged.

How to Fertilize New Zealand laurel?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

The recommended amount for fertilizing Corynocarpus laevigatus is to apply a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, twice a month during the growing season. For slow-release fertilizers, 500 grams per plant should be applied three times annually, preferably in the spring, summer, and fall.

How to Prune New Zealand laurel?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying dead or damaged branches, removing them using sharp, clean pruning shears. Maintain the plant's natural shape by trimming back overgrown areas, ensuring not to cut too aggressively. This encourages healthy growth and maintains aesthetic appeal. Focus on shaping the canopy by selectively trimming branches to open up the center of the plant, which enhances light penetration and air circulation. This is crucial for preventing disease and promoting vigorous growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate New Zealand laurel plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring

Gather ripe seeds from mature Corynocarpus laevigatus fruits. Ensure fruits are fully matured and the seeds are extracted carefully to avoid damage.

Select healthy and disease-free branches for cutting. Trim sections of about 10-15 cm, making sure each cutting includes several leaves.

Prepare a seed-starting mix or rooting medium composed of equal parts peat moss and perlite, which will retain moisture and provide good drainage.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot New Zealand laurel plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Corynocarpus laevigatus signals a need for repotting when its roots start protruding through drainage holes. Spring or early summer is the ideal time to repot, as it aligns with the plant's active growth phase, ensuring it recovers more quickly and efficiently.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. This prevents waterlogging while accommodating new root growth. Opting for a breathable material like terracotta helps regulate soil moisture and temperature.

The ideal soil for Corynocarpus laevigatus is a well-draining potting mix. This helps prevent root rot by ensuring adequate water flow, while still retaining enough moisture for the plant's needs. A mix specifically designed for indoor foliage or tropical plants works best.

Toxicity of New Zealand laurel

Is New Zealand laurel toxic to humans?

Accidental ingestion of the seeds from the New Zealand laurel is the primary cause of poisoning associated with this plant. The fruit's kernels are known to contain a potent alkaloid called karakin, which poses a serious toxicity risk to humans. Consuming these seeds can lead to severe health consequences, including the possibility of death. Symptoms of such poisoning may manifest as intense convulsions and extreme muscle spasms, potentially resulting in paralysis and physical deformity. It is important to note that children might be at a greater risk of mistakenly consuming the seeds.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→