Ngaio, Ngaio tree, Mousehole Tree

Myoporum laetum

Physical Characteristics

Myoporum laetum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

New Zealand. Hawaii. California. Australia

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[153, 177]. The fruit is about 6 - 9mm in diameter[200]. Some caution is advised, see notes above on possible toxicity.

Medicinal Uses

Odontalgic Vulnerary Odontalgic, vulnerary. The bark is used to treat ulcers[61].

Known Hazards

All parts of the plant contain a liver toxin[173].