SafePlants

Ngaio (Myoporum laetum)

Considerations for Pets

• All parts of the Ngaio plant contain a liver toxin.
• The plant has fleshy leaves dotted with oil glands that might be attractive to some animals.

Considerations for Children

• All parts of the Ngaio plant contain a liver toxin.
• The plant has fleshy leaves dotted with oil glands that might be attractive to children.

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio or Mousehole Tree, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to New Zealand.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Myoporum laetum Forster f.
• Common Names: Ngaio, Ngaio Tree, Mousehole Tree, Myoporum.
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (sometimes also classified under Myoporaceae).
• Synonyms: Myoporum perforatum (mentioned as an alternative name)

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to New Zealand.
• A common tree found in regenerating lowland forests.
• Suitable for exposed coastal sites.

Ecological Role

• The text suggests that Ngaio is becoming a weed in California.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A fast-growing shrub or small tree, reaching up to 10 meters in height.
• Has an open habit.
• Forms a small spreading tree or large bush with multi-stems or trunks.
• Large, glossy green leaves dotted with oil glands.
• Small white flowers appear in summer, sometimes with purple spots.
• Often a dome-shaped tree with bright green fleshy leaves.
• Rough, furrowed grey trunk, especially in old age.

Additional Information

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11.
• Flowers: October - January.
• Fruits: December - June.

Quirky Facts

• In Maori mythology, a gnarled old ngaio tree is said to have accompanied Rona on her involuntary trip to the moon.
• The name "Ngaio" is also the name of a suburb.