NZ Natives
Our forest estate covers 100,000ha in a number of locations across New Zealand and includes extensive areas of natural vegetation rich in native species. Currently we collect seed from 36 different native species.
All seed is collected from where it grows naturally if possible. This is important to determine provenance. The seed is collected from the wild where significant out-crossing occurs avoiding selfing from single individuals. Seed from the wild germinates well, grows strongly and produces seedlings which are true to type.
We can collect large quantities of seed to order on a contract basis if required. If we haven't got the seed in storage, we can source it given enough notification. The seed collecting season is from February to May depending on the species.
In particular we collect regularly from the beeches and grasses.
Some of the more common species we collect are:
- Metrosideros umbellata - Southern Rata
- Phormium cookianum - Mountain Flax
- Phormium tenax - NZ Flax
- Sophora microphylla - Kowhai
- Hoheria lyallii - Mountain Lacebark
- Aciphylla scott-thompsoni - Giant Spaniard
- Coprosma spp
- Chionochloa rubra - Red tussock
- Libertia ixioides - NZ Iris
- Dianella nigra - NZ Blue Berry
- Pseudowintera colorata - Pepperwood
- Pittosporum tenuifolium - Kuhuhu
- Nothofagus fusca, menziesii, solandri var. cliffortioides - Red, Silver and Mountain beech
All our seed is collected fresh, then processed, extracted, cleaned and refridgerated. Cutting tests are carried out on most seed species to determine percentage. We are able to achieve between 80% and 100% live seed on most species with our cleaning methods.
Should you purchase seed from us you will be assured of prompt service. Your seed will be delivered to you sealed in heavy plastic with the seed data relevant for that seedlot.