Hoheria sexstylosa (Graceful Lacebark)

There are so many beautiful endemic New Zealand trees that we can't grow in this country because of our occasionally harsh winters which prove too much for them. However - this is not one of them. As long as it's protected from the worst of the north-easterlies, they seem to enjoy our climate. Their elegant form only manifests itself if given space though. Sheltered but plenty of light and any reasonably well drained soil.

The name sexstylosa refers to the flower having six (sex) styles (stylosa). The styles are little protuberances within the flower that support the stigmata (plural of stigma) that are the female pollen receiving organs - for want of another expression. Not entirely unconnected with sex then.

Rare in Britain but can reach 25ft or more with a very nice straight trunk.

Propagated from seed.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.