Akeake

Akeake, also known as sticky hop‑bush, is an erect shrub or small tree that grows in coastal and lowland scrub and forest. Akeake is a very hardy native and has distinctive bright, wavy foliage.

Appearance:

• Bright green leaves, narrow and noticeably wavy
• Warm reddish bark that peels from the trunk in thin flakes
• Erect shrub or small tree growth form

Growth:

• Leaves are 4–10 cm long and 1–3 cm wide
• Branches are spreading and gently ascending
• Typically reaches a maximum height of up to 7 m

Uses:

Akeake makes an excellent shelter plant for exposed sites and is a popular choice for hedges due to its tolerance of trimming and its attractive foliage. It is valuable in regenerative planting because it is fast‑growing and hardy, and it provides good cover. Its dense root system also helps stabilise soil in erosion‑prone areas.

For regeneration and restoration projects, Akeake is a reliable native species to plant in the transition zone between hillslopes and floodplains, best suited to areas that don’t flood seasonally.

Cultural & Historical Notes:

Traditionally, Māori used the durable hardwood to make weapons such as tao (short spear), as well as various garden tools.