Living in New Zealand you’re fortunate enough to be surrounded by stunning native greenery. As more and more people move into the area, native gardens and plants also need to be protected, making it important for locals to choose plants for their own backyards that won’t have a negative impact on the environment. Griselinia is a popular species of native shrub that has a range of benefits for the New Zealand climate and garden, making it an ideal addition to any property.
An Adaptable Species
Griselinia (also known as Broadleaf) is a lovely evergreen tree that can grow anywhere from 1 – 10 metres tall depending on which variety you choose. It flourishes in most soil types, including clay, has an extensive root system, and is therefore suitable for coastal regions and windy spots, making it perfect for New Zealand. It’s readily available in garden centres and is incredibly low maintenance; it requires very little pruning or fertiliser to stay healthy and retains its lush green foliage year round.
Griselinia’s Many Benefits
Griselinia is highly beneficial to your garden, and here are some of the reasons why:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Griselinia’s glossy dark-green leaves are an attractive addition to any outdoor setting. With its ability to grow into a small tree when mature, it adds texture, as well as a natural privacy barrier, to any garden.
- Versatile Uses:Griseinlia can be used for topiary, hedging, or as a feature tree in your garden. Its hardy nature makes it suitable for pots and containers, providing a nice decorative touch to your balcony or patio.
Griselinia also provides a number of ecological benefits. Studies have shown that it contributes to improved air quality and supports native bird species in the region.
Encouraging Native Wildlife
When selecting plants for your garden, it is important to support local wildlife and choose species that are native to New Zealand. Griselinia is ideal for this purpose as it encourages pollinators and other beneficial insects such as bees and ladybirds. These insects play an important role in the environment by helping to pollinate other plants and control insect infestations. The tree’s fragrant flowers also attract native birds such as tui and kereru, which further enhances your outdoor space with their beautiful song.
No Pests or Diseases
Unlike other non-native species, Griselinia is relatively free of pests and diseases. It has been estimated that around 90 percent of pest and disease problems in New Zealand are caused by non-native plants, making it even more important to select species that are native to the region. Griselinia is a hardy species which can withstand harsher weather conditions, making it less susceptible to damage from pests or disease.
Creating Your Dream Garden with Griselinia
Griselinia is the perfect choice for creating an eye-catching garden with minimal effort. Its adaptable nature makes it ideal for planting in a range of different soil types, providing instant visual impact for your property. Thanks to its ability to encourage native wildlife and its low maintenance requirements, Griselinia is the perfect choice for adding a touch of delight and colour to your garden.
