Native Plants

Featuring the best native plants in New Zealand

ArchiPro features only the best native trees and plants in New Zealand from trusted suppliers with years of experience cultivating these species for our gardens. In recent times, they have become incredibly popular with homeowners increasingly aware and mindful of the benefits that native species bring. This includes the fact they are naturally adapted to our local climate and soil and their ability to attract native birds, bees and insects. They also give gardens a distinctive Kiwi aesthetic while preserving our natural heritage. The native plants featured are an important part of a wider range of high-quality plants and trees that you can find on ArchiPro. 

Different species of New Zealand native trees

New Zealand native trees are popular choices for gardens due to their beauty, resilience, and ecological benefits. Here are some common types used in Kiwi gardens:

Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa)

Known as the "New Zealand Christmas tree," it features vibrant red flowers in summer and is ideal for coastal gardens due to its salt tolerance.

Kōwhai (Sophora spp.)

Loved for its bright yellow flowers that attract native birds like tūī and bellbirds, kōwhai adds colour and life to any garden.

Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium)

Known for its medicinal properties and beautiful small white or pink flowers, it’s perfect for low-maintenance gardens.

Flax/Harakeke (Phormium tenax)

A versatile, architectural plant with tall, sword-like leaves and red flower spikes that attract nectar-feeding birds.

Tī Kōuka (Cabbage Tree, Cordyline australis)

A striking tree with long, slender leaves and fragrant flowers, adding a distinctive Kiwi look to gardens.

Rewarewa (Knightia excelsa)

A tall, elegant tree with red brush-like flowers, perfect as a specimen tree and loved by native birds.

Totara (Podocarpus totara)

A slow-growing, evergreen tree valued for its dense foliage and strong timber, suitable for larger gardens.

Benefits of choosing a native tree from an experienced nursery

Choosing a New Zealand native tree from a trusted nursery ensures you receive healthy, high-quality plants that are well-suited to your garden's conditions. Reputable nurseries often provide expert advice on selecting the right tree for your specific needs, such as soil type, climate, and space availability. Their trees are typically grown locally, ensuring they are hardy, pest-free, and acclimatised, increasing the likelihood of successful growth. Trusted nurseries also offer eco-sourced or sustainably grown native plants, which help preserve local biodiversity and support native wildlife. Investing in trees from a reliable nursery ensures better long-term results, contributing to a thriving, beautiful, and environmentally friendly garden.

How to choose the right native tree for your garden

Choosing the right native tree for your garden involves considering the tree’s size, growth rate, and the conditions of your site. Start by assessing your garden space — smaller gardens suit compact trees like kōwhai or tī kōuka, while larger spaces can accommodate tall species like tōtara or pūriri. Take into account the soil type, sunlight exposure, and moisture levels, for example, kahikatea thrives in damp areas, while pōhutukawa is ideal for coastal conditions. Think about the purpose of the tree — whether it’s for attracting wildlife, providing shade, or adding visual appeal — and select species that fulfil those needs. Lastly, go for low-maintenance options like mānuka or kānuka if you prefer a resilient, fuss-free addition to your garden.

Other types of trees and plants that you may need

If you’re undertaking a big outdoor and landscaping project, there are some other types of trees and plants that may be of interest. For example, hedges are a great solution for natural shading, sheltering and screening with many diverse species to choose from. Exotic plants, on the other hand, can often provide a bit of tropical flair to a garden with vibrant colours that aren’t always available locally. Finally, using climbing plants is a quick and easy way to create a wall of natural foliage which can serve both functional and decorative purposes.