Flolape

Shrubby honeysuckle

Alseuosmia macrophylla A.Cunn.
Shrubby honeysuckle
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-4.0)

Alseuosmia macrophylla, known as shrubby honeysuckle, is a small evergreen shrub in the Alseuosmiaceae family. Endemic to New Zealand, it is found in both the North and South Islands. It grows in forest understory habitats, such as the Hamilton Ecological District, where it is associated with Blechnum species and Nothofagus truncata. The plant has fragrant flowers and produces small, edible red berries. It requires moist, shaded conditions and is sometimes cultivated in gardens.

Description

Alseuosmia macrophylla is a member of the Alseuosmiaceae family and is native to New Zealand. It is adapted to forest understory environments and does not tolerate full sun or frost. The plant is known for its aromatic flowers and sweet-tasting berries. Its common names include shrubby honeysuckle and toropapa. The species was first described in 1839 by A.Cunn. It is one of three closely related species in its genus and is occasionally grown in horticulture due to its hardiness under suitable conditions.

Other common names

Shrubby honeysuckle

Distribution

New Zealand North · New Zealand South

Related species