Nestegis lanceolata

Nestegis lanceolata, commonly called white maire, is a tree native to New Zealand.

Nestegis lanceolata
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Asterids
Order:	Lamiales
Family:	Oleaceae
Genus:	Nestegis
Species:	N. lanceolata
Binomial name
Nestegis lanceolata Hook.f.

Nestegis lanceolata is found from lowland to hilly forest across the North Island. In the South Island its uncommon but is found in the Marlborough Sounds.[1]

It grows to approximately 15 metres high and has long (5–12 cm), leathery and glossy leaves. Racemes of green flowers are produced in spring followed by a 1 cm long red fruit.[2]

Uses

The wood of N. lanceolata is one the hardest native timbers of New Zealand. It was traditionally used by the Māori to make tools and weapons. A variety of digging sticks were made from the timber for food gathering and gardening. The wood was also used for beams in the construction of storage houses.[3]

References

1. "Nestegis lanceolata". New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved 22 May 2012.
2. "White maire". The University of Auckland. Archived from the original on 8 February 2013. Retrieved 22 May 2012.
3. "Plant Use Details - Nestegis lanceolata". Landcare Research. Retrieved 22 May 2012.

White maire foliage