Knightia excelsa – Rewarewa

Knightia excelsa, or Rewarewa, is a graceful New Zealand native tree with large, serrated leaves and a slim, cone-like shape. In spring and early summer, it has eye-catching clusters of red flowers that attract tūī, bellbirds, and other native birds. Its upright growth and evergreen leaves make it a great way to add height and a native feel to gardens and bigger landscapes.

Rewarewa in NZ

Rewarewa is well suited to New Zealand conditions and grows best in full sun or part shade with well-drained soil. Once established, it can handle wind and dry spells, so it fits many types of landscapes. Knightia excelsa is great as a feature tree, for screening, or in native and lifestyle plantings where its flowers help feed native birds.

Knightia excelsa size, spacing, and growth rate

Rewarewa grows at a moderate pace and usually reaches about 6 to 8 meters tall and 3 to 4 meters wide in 10 years, keeping its upright, slim shape. Give it enough space to keep its cone-like form, and plant it away from buildings so you can enjoy its full height. Its small footprint makes it a good native tree for smaller gardens, as well as parks, schools, and bigger projects.