Revegetation is an essential part of environmental restoration, aimed at reintroducing native flora to degraded landscapes to rebuild ecosystems, enhance biodiversity, and stabilise soil. In New Zealand, landscapes vary from lush rainforests to dry high country, choosing the right plant species is critical for successful revegetation. This guide will explore the best native trees, shrubs, and grasses suitable for different stages of a revegetation project, focusing on their ecological roles and ideal planting conditions.
Best native tree choices
1. Totara (Podocarpus totara)
Totara is a robust, long-lived conifer that can grow up to 20 meters tall, with a broad, dense canopy. It is renowned for its adaptability to various soil types, from well-drained to moderately wet conditions. Totara is significant in providing habitat and food for native wildlife. Its dense foliage offers excellent shade, contributing to a microhabitat beneficial for understory plants and reducing soil erosion through its extensive root system.
Best Suited For: Totara thrives in both lowland and upland forest environments. It is particularly well-suited for reforestation projects aiming to restore mature forest ecosystems or stabilise slopes where erosion control is a priority.
Planting Stage: Totara should be introduced in the later stages of a revegetation project, once the site has been prepared and initial ground cover plants are established. This allows Totara to benefit from a relatively stable environment and compete effectively for resources.
2. Kowhai (Sophora microphylla)
Kowhai is a small to medium-sized tree known for its striking, bright yellow flowers that bloom in late winter and spring. These flowers attract native pollinators, including bees and tui, enhancing the biodiversity of the site. Kowhai’s relatively compact size makes it versatile for different landscape positions, from forest margins to open spaces.
Best Suited For: Kowhai is ideal for planting in areas that need to attract pollinators. It performs well in a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, and is suited to both coastal and inland environments.
Planting Stage: Kowhai can be planted in the early to mid-stages of the project. Its role in attracting pollinators will help support the natural establishment and dispersal of other plant species and contribute to the development of a diverse ecosystem.
3. Beech (Fuscospora solandrii)
Beech, or Fuscospora solandrii, is a prominent tree species in South Island forests. It can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a dense canopy providing significant shade. Beech trees are crucial for creating understorey environments that support diverse flora and fauna. They are tolerant of a range of soil conditions but prefer well-drained soils and cooler, shaded areas.
Best Suited For: Beech is well-suited to lowland and montane forest environments. It is particularly effective in areas where a mature forest structure is desired, offering long-term ecological benefits and habitat stability.
Planting Stage: Beech should be planted in the later stages of revegetation when the site has a stable nurse crop cover and soil conditions are somewhat improved. Its role is to enhance the forest canopy and provide long-term ecological benefits.
4. Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides)
Kahikatea, also known as Dacrycarpus dacrydioides, is one of New Zealand's tallest and most iconic native trees, reaching heights of up to 66 meters. It is a conifer that forms part of the ancient forest ecosystem and is notable for its impressive size, distinctive white bark, and dense canopy. Kahikatea's foliage is dark green, producing small, inconspicuous cones.
Best Suited For: Kahikatea is best suited for lowland and riverine forest environments, where it can grow to its full potential. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and areas with ample moisture. Kahikatea is commonly found in swampy or alluvial forest areas, making it ideal for restoring wetland and riparian zones. Its large size and canopy provide essential shade and habitat in mature forest settings.
Planting Stage: Kahikatea should be planted in the later stages. This is because Kahikatea requires a stable environment to thrive and can be sensitive to competition from other plants during its early growth stages. Planting Kahikatea in a mature or developing forest environment allows it to contribute effectively to the canopy layer and support the ongoing development of the ecosystem.
Top native shrub options
1. Pseudopanax arboreus (Five Finger)
Pseudopanax arboreus, commonly known as Five Finger, is a versatile and attractive native tree found in the South Island of New Zealand. It can grow up to 12 meters tall and features distinctive, palmate leaves with five to seven lobes, giving the tree its common name. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that attract native insects, and its dense foliage provides habitat and shelter for small birds and insects. Its adaptability to various soil types and environmental conditions makes it a valuable addition to revegetation projects, especially in areas where ecological restoration
Best Suited For: Five Finger is well-suited for a variety of planting scenarios, including forest edges, understorey plantings, and as a feature tree in mixed plantings. It thrives in both lowland and montane forest environments and can adapt to different soil types, from well-drained to moderately moist. This makes it an excellent choice for diverse revegetation projects aimed at restoring native forest habitats or enhancing garden landscapes.
Planting Stage: Five Finger is ideal for planting in the early to mid-stages. Its relatively fast growth and adaptability mean it can establish quickly and contribute to the development of a diverse plant community. Including Five Finger early in the project helps create structural diversity, providing immediate visual interest and habitat for wildlife.
2. Kanuka (Kunzea ericoides)
Kanuka is a hardy, fast-growing shrub or small tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It is known for its white or pink flowers and aromatic foliage. Kanuka is excellent for stabilizing soil and providing early cover in revegetation projects. Its ability to fix nitrogen helps improve soil fertility, making it beneficial for preparing the site for other plant species.
Best Suited For: Kanuka is ideal for a range of environments, including disturbed sites, erosion-prone areas, and forest margins. It performs well in various soil types and is particularly useful in dry, open, or disturbed areas.
Planting Stage: Kanuka is well-suited for the initial stages of revegetation. Its rapid growth in a range of harsh environments and its soil-enhancing properties make it an excellent choice for a nurse crop. Kanuka improves the soil conditions and provides shelter and shade before more sensitive or slower-growing species are planted.
3. Coprosma (Coprosma propinqua)
Coprosma propinqua, a small shrub with vibrant foliage, offers a range of colours and forms, adding visual interest to revegetation projects. Its dense growth provides excellent cover and habitat for small birds and insects. Coprosma is adaptable to different soil types and environmental conditions, making it a versatile choice for various planting situations.
Best Suited For: Coprosma is suitable for both understorey and open-site plantings. It works well in a range of soil conditions, including poor or disturbed soils, and can be used to enhance plant diversity and ground cover.
Planting Stage: Coprosma can be introduced in the early to mid stages of a revegetation project. It helps establish ground cover and provides habitat for wildlife, supporting the overall development of the ecosystem.
4. Melicytus ramiflorus (Mingimingi)
Melicytus ramiflorus, commonly known as Mingimingi, is a small to medium-sized shrub native to the South Island of New Zealand. It typically reaches 2 to 4 meters in height and features small, dense clusters of dark green leaves. Mingimingi is known for its attractive appearance and its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. It produces small, fragrant, inconspicuous flowers that are important for attracting native pollinators. Mingimingi is highly valued for its ecological benefits, including soil stabilisation and habitat creation.
Best Suited For: Mingimingi is ideal for planting in a range of environments, including forest edges, understorey plantings, and open spaces. It thrives in various soil types, from well-drained to moderately moist, and can tolerate different light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. This versatility makes Mingimingi a valuable addition to revegetation projects aimed at creating habitat diversity and improving ecological resilience.
Planting Stage: Mingimingi can be planted in the early to mid-stages of a revegetation project. Its adaptability and rapid growth make it suitable for establishing ground cover and providing immediate habitat benefits. Including Mingimingi early in the project helps support the development of a diverse plant community and enhances the overall ecological function of the site.
Great native grasses and flaxes
1. Toe Toe (Austroderia richardii)
Toe Toe is a native grass known for its tall, elegant flower heads and its ability to thrive in wet conditions. It provides excellent cover and habitat for wildlife and is effective in stabilising soil in riparian and wetland areas. Toe Toe’s robust growth helps prevent erosion and contributes to the development of diverse plant communities.
Best Suited For Toe Toe is best suited for riparian zones, wetlands, and areas with high moisture levels. Its ability to grow in challenging conditions makes it an excellent choice for revegetation projects in these environments.
Planting Stage: Toe Toe should be planted in the mid to late stages of a revegetation project, particularly in areas where soil stabilisation and habitat creation are key objectives. Its growth will help establish a more complex plant community and provide essential cover for wildlife.
2. Phormium tenax (Harakeke or New Zealand Flax)
Phormium tenax, commonly known as Harakeke or New Zealand Flax, is a prominent native plant renowned for its long, sword-shaped leaves that can reach up to 2 meters in length. The plant produces striking flower spikes with tubular red or green flowers that attract native birds like the tui and bellbird. Harakeke is known for its versatility and has been traditionally used by Māori for weaving, as well as for its medicinal properties. In revegetation projects, Harakeke is highly valued for its excellent soil stabilisation capabilities. Its extensive, fibrous root system helps prevent erosion and stabilises riverbanks and slopes.
Best Suited For: Harakeke is ideal for riparian zones, wetlands, and areas with poor or disturbed soils. It thrives in a range of soil types, from well-drained to waterlogged conditions. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various revegetation contexts, including streambanks, erosion-prone areas, and coastal environments.
Planting Stage: Phormium tenax is suitable for planting in the early to mid stages of a revegetation project. Its rapid growth and ability to establish quickly make it an excellent choice for initial ground cover and soil stabilisation. Planting Harakeke early in the project helps provide immediate erosion control and prepares the site for the introduction of other plant species.
3. Juncus edgarie (Edgar’s Rush)
Juncus edgarie, commonly known as Edgar’s Rush, is a distinctive native rush species characterised by its fine, slender stems and delicate, tufted growth. Typically growing up to 1 meter in height, Edgar’s Rush features small, inconspicuous flower heads that are greenish-brown and add subtle texture to the landscape. This rush is valued for its adaptability to a range of soil conditions, particularly in wet or poorly drained environments. Its dense clumping habit and fibrous root system make it effective at stabilising soil and reducing erosion, making it an excellent choice for wetland and riparian restoration projects.
Best Suited For: Juncus edgarie thrives in wetlands, marshes, and riparian zones with high moisture levels. It is well-suited to waterlogged soils and areas prone to flooding. This plant is particularly effective for stabilising streambanks, pond edges, and other areas with high water tables.
Planting Stage: Juncus edgarie is best planted in the early stages of a revegetation project. Its quick establishment and dense growth provide effective ground cover and soil stabilisation, which is crucial for controlling erosion and preparing the site for additional plant species.
4. Carex secta (Pukio or Large Sedge)
Carex secta, commonly known as Pukio or Large Sedge, is a robust native plant with tufted growth and striking green foliage. This sedge can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and forms dense clumps that provide excellent cover. Pukio produces inconspicuous flower spikes that are followed by small seed heads. It is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in wetland and riparian environments. Pukio’s dense growth and fibrous root system make it highly effective for soil stabilisation, especially in areas prone to erosion. Its adaptability to wet conditions and poor soils also makes it an excellent choice for restoring wetlands and stream banks.
Best Suited For: Carex secta is ideal for wetlands, riparian zones, and areas with high moisture levels. It thrives in waterlogged soils and can handle periodic flooding, making it suitable for streambanks, pond edges, and low-lying areas prone to erosion.
Planting Stage: Carex secta is best planted in the early to mid-stages of revegetation. Its fast establishment and dense growth provide immediate ground cover and help stabilise soils, preparing the site for further planting of other species.
Selecting the right plant species for revegetation projects is crucial for ensuring successful ecological restoration. Native plants offer a range of benefits, from erosion control to habitat creation. By understanding the specific needs and characteristics of these species, you can tailor your planting strategy to effectively address site conditions and project goals. Selecting the right native plants for your site not only supports environmental health but also contributes to the resilience and sustainability of our natural landscapes.