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If you want a garden that feels authentically Kiwi, look no further than native plants. They’re beautiful, hardy, and perfectly adapted to New Zealand’s unique conditions. From the golden bells of the kowhai to the red blaze of the pohutukawa, native species add colour and texture while supporting local wildlife like tui, kereru and native bees.
Because these plants evolved right here in Aotearoa, they’re often more resilient to drought, pests, and local soil types, making them a sustainable and low-maintenance choice for residential gardens. Whether you’re landscaping a coastal section or brightening up a suburban backyard, there’s a native plant that will thrive in your space.
Before you start planting, the Department of Conservation recommends creating a plan to consider how your garden will look once the plants are established. They even say to visit a nearby patch of native bush to observe how different plants relate to each other in your region.
Here are 10 of the best New Zealand native plants and flowers to grow in your garden, plus tips on how to care for them.
1. Kōwhai
Best for: Bird-friendly colour in spring
Why we love it: Kōwhai’s golden-yellow blooms attract tui and kākā, lighting up your garden with colour and birdsong from early spring.
How to grow: Plant in well-draining soil and full sun. Water young trees regularly, but once established, they’re drought-tolerant.
2. Pōhutukawa
Best for: Coastal gardens and summer colour
Why we love it: Known as New Zealand’s ‘Christmas tree’, pōhutukawa produces brilliant red flowers from November to January.
How to grow: Prefers sandy, free-draining soil and full sun. Great for coastal or windy sites.
3. Manuka
Best for: Pollinator gardens
Why we love it: Its pink and white flowers attract bees and produce the famous manuka honey.
How to grow: Hardy in most conditions; prefers sunny, well-drained spots.
4. Hebe
Best for: Compact spaces and year-round foliage.
Why we love it: Hebes come in many varieties, offering purple, pink, or white flowers and lush evergreen leaves.
How to grow: Perfect for borders, pots, or mixed native plantings. Trim lightly after flowering to encourage new growth.
5. Flax / Harakeke
Best for: Structure and bird life
Why we love it: Harakeke’s bold, sword-like leaves and tall flower stalks make a dramatic statement, plus they attract nectar-feeding birds.
How to grow: Tolerates sun, wind, and coastal exposure. Cut back old leaves to keep plants tidy.
6. Nīkau Palm
Best for: Adding tropical flair to shaded gardens
Why we love it: The only native palm in New Zealand, the nikau has elegant fronds and thrives in damp, shaded areas.
How to grow: Plant in rich, moist soil with shelter from strong winds.
7. Pittosporum
Best for: Hedges and screening
Why we love it: Fast-growing and easy to shape, pittosporum adds lush greenery and tiny, fragrant flowers.
How to grow: Thrives in sun or partial shade. Trim regularly to maintain form.
8. Corokia
Best for: Textural interest and bird habitat
Why we love it: Its twisted silver-grey branches and yellow flowers create a striking contrast.
How to grow: Great for dry areas or coastal gardens; prune lightly for shape.
Designing with New Zealand natives
- Mix heights and textures: Combine trees, shrubs, and groundcovers for layered interest.
- Plan for pollinators: Include flowering species like kowhai, manuka and flax to attract birds and bees.
- Add contrast: Use silver-leaved corokia beside glossy-leaved pillosporum for visual depth.
- Think seasonally: Choose a mix of spring and summer bloomers for continuous colour.
Native garden care tips
- Soil: Most natives prefer free-draining soil; add compost for extra nutrients.
- Water: Keep new plants watered for the first year; many are drought-tolerant once established.
- Fertiliser: Use a native plant fertiliser sparingly and avoid overfeeding.
- Pruning: Trim after flowering to maintain shape and encourage growth.
- Pests: Natives are generally hardy, but check for scale, aphids or caterpillars.
Planting native flowers and shrubs is one of the easiest ways to create a garden that feels truly New Zealand. It’s low-maintenance, beautiful year-round, and supports local birds and pollinators. Whether you love lush greenery, vibrant flowers or coastal resilience, there’s a native plant that will thrive in your space, and make your garden feel like a little piece of Aotearoa.
