Griselinia littoralis aka New Zealand Broadleaf

Griselinia littoralis is an evergreen shrub or tree from New Zealand. It belongs to the Griseliniaceae family. Gardeners also know it as New Zealand broadleaf. Its native range includes North Island, South Island and Stewart Island. It grows in forests from lowland sites into mountain country. In gardens, its dense growth suits hedges, screens and coastal planting.

Plants reach about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall in cultivation. Their spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. The RHS gives a maturity time of 10–20 years. It describes fast growth, while Plants For A Future reports slow growth. These sources therefore differ on how fast plants grow. The bushy form carries broad, oval leaves in light green. Leaves remain on the plant through the year. This lasting cover gives hedges and screens their value.

The flowers are small, yellow-green and easy to miss. Female plants can then bear purple fruit. Both sexes must grow together for fruit to form. Plants For A Future lists the fruit as edible. It also notes a bitter taste. Its food-use rating is two out of five. That source reports no known hazards and no known medicinal uses. This does not establish safety for every person or pet.

Choose full sun and soil that drains well. The RHS lists clay, chalk, loam and sand as suitable. It also accepts acid, neutral and alkaline soils. Its moisture guidance spans dry to moist conditions. Plants can grow in exposed or sheltered sites. Coastal conditions suit them, and they tolerate sea exposure. The RHS assigns UK hardiness rating H5. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 6–9. Suggested garden settings include wall-side borders and woodland edges.

Plants tolerate trimming and can form a dense hedge. Plants For A Future recommends cutting in early summer. It also reports that plants tolerate cuts into old wood. The RHS recommends semi-hardwood cuttings for propagation. Pests are seldom a problem, according to the RHS. Leaf spot can occur, while honey fungus is rare. Beyond garden use, the wood has served in shipbuilding. Railway sleepers are another recorded use. The wood is dense and durable, though somewhat brittle.