Puriri

Vitex lucens

Puriri

LOCATION: Native to New Zealand, found mainly in the upper half of the North Island.

RONGOĀ: The leaves made a decoction for bathing sprains and easing backache. Its antiseptic qualities make it good for treating ulcers by applying the liquid directly and could also be drunk to treat sore throats.

USES: Wood extremely hard and durable, comes from the same family as teak. The wood made weapons and implements such as spades, paddles and fences and other items that required sturdiness.

One of the chemical constituents of the leaves has been patented as a germicide.

BIRDS AND BUGS: A host tree for the caterpillars and pupae of New Zealand’s largest native moth, the puriri moth. Flowers and fruits are present for most or all of the year, so puriri is an important food source for birds.