Tea Tree

Maori name:       Kanuka
Botanical name:  Kunzea ericoides

A beautiful minute flower formed in clusters usually in December. Common throughout lowland and mountain scrub and along forest margins in the North and South Islands of NZ. The erect tree growing up to 15 metres.

The tree was widely used by Maori for paddles, weapons, spade blades, bird spears. The bark was used for making water containers and the inner bark as a waterproof layer for roofing. It is used for firewood and fencing. Kanuka oil was used by Maori for its anti-worm, antibacterial and insecticidal properties. Maori used the pounded seed capsules to make a poultic for running sores.

Nearly missed out on this little treasure for another year. I managed to find a young tree, a little higher than myself, with a few late bloomers. Hubby very kindly held a branch down for me so I could take this shot. It was very differcult to get in focus.

A little wander at a local park on this warm sunny Summers day. Hubbys parents enjoyed being amongst the NZ native plantings.

New Years Eve - wishing you a wonderful evening and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2011.  Happy New Year :))