Coriaria sarmentosa
Coriaria sarmentosa G.Forst.
Coriaria sarmentosa, known as tutu, grassland tutu, or ground tutu, is a shrub in the Coriariaceae family. It is endemic to New Zealand and is commonly found in grasslands and shrublands. The species was first described by Georg Forster in 1786. All Coriaria species, including C. sarmentosa, are toxic, particularly the seeds. In 2023, it was assessed as 'Not Threatened' under the New Zealand Threat Classification System.
Description
Coriaria sarmentosa is a shrub native to New Zealand, where it is distributed in both the North and South Islands. It is a common plant in grassland and shrubland habitats. The species was first formally described in 1786 by Georg Forster. The plant is part of the Coriariaceae family. All species within the genus Coriaria are poisonous, with the seeds being especially hazardous. Despite its toxicity, C. sarmentosa is not considered to be at risk of extinction, as indicated by its 'Not Threatened' status in the 2023 New Zealand Threat Classification System.
Distribution
New Zealand North · New Zealand South