15 Top New Zealand Native Plants to Grow in 2025
As climate change, urbanisation, and biodiversity loss continues to challenge our environment, more New Zealanders are turning to native plants to restore ecological balance in their gardens. Native species are well-adapted to local conditions, require less maintenance, and provide critical food and habitat for native birds, insects, and lizards.
Looking to refresh your planting plan for 2025? Here are 15 essential native plants that tick the boxes for beauty, durability, and environmental impact.
1. Harakeke (Phormium tenax) – New Zealand Flax
With dramatic upright leaves and nectar-filled flowers, harakeke adds structure and life to your garden. It’s beloved by native birds like tūī and korimako.
Great for: Rain gardens, statement planting, wild life gardens.
2. Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) – NZ Christmas Tree
This iconic coastal tree bursts into bloom with fiery red flowers over summer. Hardy and wind-tolerant, it’s a natural choice for coastal landscapes.
Great for: Coastal planting, large sections, festive colour.
3. Kānuka (Kunzea robusta)
Often under appreciated, kānuka is a graceful, fast-growing shrub or small tree that supports biodiversity and improves soil structure.
Great for: Shelter belts, wildlife corridors, low-maintenance gardens.
4. Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium)
Loved by bees for its medicinal honey-producing flowers, mānuka is also resilient to poor soil and harsh climates.
Great for: Bee-friendly gardens, dry or rocky areas, erosionc ontrol.
5. Kōwhai (Sophora spp.)
These stunning yellow-flowering trees are a must for attracting birds. Kōwhai are deciduous, offering seasonal change and early spring colour.
Great for: Native bird habitats, seasonal interest, statement trees.
6. Pittosporum tenuifolium – Kohuhu
Fast-growing with small wavy leaves and scentednight-blooming flowers. Works beautifully as a hedge or informal screen.
Great for: Privacy planting, wind shelter, hedgerows.
7. Cordyline australis – Cabbage Tree (Tī Kōuka)
A tough, iconic species with fragrant flowers and strongform. It handles wet feet and drought — a true survivor.
Great for: Wetland edges, statement planting, bird-friendly gardens.
8. Fuchsia excorticata – Tree Fuchsia (Kōtukutuku)
One of the few deciduous NZ trees, it features striking bark and edible berries loved by birds.
Great for: Damp or shaded areas, bird gardens, forest understories.
9. Blechnum novae-zelandiae – Kiokio Fern
This fast-spreading ground cover fern is ideal for adding alush, native feel under trees or along shady borders.
Great for: Shady spots, erosion control, forest-style planting.
10. Coprosma repens – Taupata
A resilient coastal shrub with glossy leaves and orange berries. Excellent for hedges and low maintenance planting.
Great for: Coastal gardens, bird food sources, urban planting.
11. Griselinia littoralis – Broadleaf
A favourite for modern NZ gardens, this dense shrub is quick-growing and tolerates salt-laden winds.
Great for: Hedges, privacy, low-maintenance landscapes.
12. Carex secta – Sedge
A flowing, bronze-green tussock perfect for wetland areas or as a contrast in mixed plantings. Birds use it for nesting and shelter.
Great for: Rain gardens, ponds, swales, texture.
13. Rhopalostylis sapida – Nikau Palm
The world’s southernmost palm, Nikau adds tropical elegance while staying fully native. Slow-growing but stunning.
Great for: Shade gardens, architectural plantings, native forest themes.
14. Arthropodium cirratum – Rengarenga (NZ Lily)
This hardy lily thrives in dry shade, producing delicate white flowers that attract bees and look gorgeous mass-planted.
Great for: Understory planting, borders, shady areas.
15. Olearia paniculata – Akiraho
A fast-growing shrub or small tree with wavy-edged yellow-green leaves and masses of daisy-like flowers in summer.
Great for: Hedges, shelter, pollinator gardens.
Why Native Plants Matter in 2025
As water becomes more precious and ecosystems more fragile, native plants offer practical beauty and purpose. They:
- Require less water and fertiliser
- Support native birds, bees, and lizards
- Contribute to soil health and carbon capture
- Reflect the unique identity of Aotearoa
Whether you're starting fresh or evolving your garden, choosing native plants is a simple way to support both beauty and biodiversity.
