Plants
Black Passionfruit (Passiflora edulis)
Black Passionfruit is a vigorous, evergreen vine that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It's perfect for adding a tropical touch to your garden. The fruit is aromatic and tangy, ideal for fresh eating, juices, or desserts. Grafted vines can bear fruit in 1–2 years. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the vine to establish before the warmer months.
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)
Lemon Verbena is a fragrant, semi-deciduous shrub that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape. The leaves are intensely lemon-scented, perfect for teas, desserts, and culinary dishes. It thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) for optimal growth. Plants are typically priced between
Bay Tree (Laurus nobilis)
Bay Tree is an evergreen shrub or small tree that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It's drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. The aromatic leaves are used in cooking, particularly in Mediterranean dishes. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the tree to establish before the cooler months.
Yellow Guava (Psidium guajava)
Yellow Guava prefers a sunny spot with well-drained soil and regular watering. The fruit is sweet and aromatic, excellent for fresh eating, juices, or jams. Thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) for optimal growth. Grafted trees can bear fruit in 2–3 years.
Red Cherry Guava (Psidium cattleyanum)
Red Cherry Guava grows well in full sun with well-drained soil. The fruit is sweet and slightly tart, great for fresh eating or preserves. Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) for optimal growth.
Inga Bean (Inga edulis)
Inga Bean is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree that prefers tropical to subtropical climates. It produces long pods filled with sweet, cotton-like pulp. Best suited for larger properties. Prefers tropical to subtropical climates with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) for optimal growth.
Persimmon (Diospyros kaki)
Persimmon thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Requires patience, as fruiting can take 3–5 years. The fruit is sweet and custard-like when fully ripe, enjoyed fresh or dried. Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the tree to establish before the cooler months.
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica)
Loquat prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The fruit is tangy and sweet, excellent for fresh eating or jams. Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the tree to establish before the cooler months. Grafted trees can bear fruit in 2–3 years.
Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia)
Macadamia thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. Requires patience, as trees take 5–7 years to bear nuts. The nuts are rich and buttery, ideal for snacking or baking. Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the tree to establish before the cooler months.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Elderberry grows in a variety of conditions, including both wet and dry fertile soils. The plant is widely grown as an ornamental shrub or small tree. Both the flowers and berries have a long tradition of culinary and medicinal use. Grows in a variety of conditions, including both wet and dry fertile soils. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) for optimal growth.
Japanese Raisin (Diospyros lotus)
Japanese Raisin is a deciduous tree that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. The fruit is sweet and aromatic, enjoyed fresh or dried. Prefers full sun with well-drained soil. In northern New Zealand, plant in early spring (September to October) to allow the tree to establish before the cooler months.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
If you're dreaming of a herb that brings both beauty and bold flavour to your garden, rosemary is your go-to. This hardy Mediterranean native is a true performer in Northland's sunny gardens. Reaching up to 1.5m in height, rosemary grows as a dense, upright shrub with fragrant, needle-like leaves that pack a punch in the kitchen—think roast lamb, kumara wedges, or even a rosemary-infused olive oil for dipping your fresh bread. It thrives in full sun, dry feet, and a free-draining soil—perfect for those coastal Hokianga spots. Once established, it's drought-tolerant and bee-friendly too! For best results, plant in spring or early autumn. Rosemary can be grown in-ground or in pots, and it's ideal for borders or hedges. Prune lightly after flowering to keep its shape. In local nurseries, well-established plants range from $8 for small pots to $20 for larger, bushy specimens.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
A garden classic, lavender is more than just a pretty face. This purple delight is as functional as it is fragrant—perfect for teas, baking, or even a calming bath soak after a long day. In the sunny north, lavender loves full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. With its tidy, mounding habit, it grows to about 60–90cm tall and is an absolute magnet for bees and butterflies. Plant it along paths or at your garden’s edge where you can brush past and release that heavenly scent. For a long-lived plant, avoid wet feet in winter and prune after flowering to maintain a neat shape. In Northland, plant from late winter to early summer. You'll find lavender at most local nurseries, with prices from $8 to $15 depending on size and variety.
Pineapple (Ananas comosus)
Yes, you can grow pineapples in Northland! These tropical beauties love the warmth and humidity we’re blessed with up here. Pineapples grow in a rosette, reaching around 1m tall and wide, and after about two years they’ll reward you with a single, sweet golden fruit per plant. The flavour? Pure summer—juicy, tangy-sweet, and so much richer than anything off the supermarket shelf. They need a frost-free spot, full sun, and excellent drainage—perfect for raised beds or large pots. Feed them with a slow-release fertiliser and keep the soil just moist. Best time to plant? Mid to late spring when the soil’s warming up. At local garden centres or tropical plant nurseries, pineapple pups or starter plants range from $15 to $25.
Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro is a lush, leafy tropical staple, grown for its starchy corms and edible leaves. A favourite in Pasifika and Māori kai, this plant brings bold foliage and flavour to the garden. In Northland, it thrives in rich, moist soils and part-shade to full sun (as long as it doesn’t dry out!). With broad, heart-shaped leaves that can grow over 1m tall, it also adds stunning structure to edible gardens or rain gardens. Plant in late spring once soil temperatures are warm. Keep well-watered and feed with compost or liquid fertiliser. After 8–10 months, the tubers are ready to harvest. Use in boil-ups, curries, or steamed and served with coconut cream. Taro plants are usually available from $10 to $18 at local plant stalls and tropical plant retailers.
Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa)
Kiwifruit vines are a classic choice for Northland growers—lush, fast-growing, and seriously productive. These climbing vines can grow up to 10 metres long, so they’ll need a strong trellis or pergola. To produce fruit, you’ll need both a male and a female plant, or go for self-fertile varieties like 'Jenny'. The fruit is tangy-sweet and loaded with vitamin C—great eaten fresh, tossed through pavlova, or made into chutney. Kiwifruit love a sunny, sheltered spot and deep, fertile soil. Regular watering and feeding during the growing season will keep them happy. Prune annually in winter to keep them tidy and fruiting well. Plant in late winter to early spring. Expect to pay around $20–$35 per vine in local nurseries, with grafted or self-fertile varieties at the higher end.
Feijoa (Acca sellowiana)
Feijoas are the darlings of Northland gardens—tough, tasty, and totally iconic. These evergreen shrubs grow 2–3 metres tall and wide, making them perfect for hedges, edible landscapes, or standalone fruit trees. Come autumn, they’re loaded with fragrant, tangy-sweet fruit with creamy flesh—perfect for scooping fresh, baking into crumbles, or stewing down for chutney. Feijoas are hardy and low-maintenance, loving full sun and well-drained soil. Most are self-fertile, but planting two different varieties will boost your crop. Plant in late winter to spring, water well during dry spells, and prune lightly after harvest. Available at most Northland nurseries from $25 to $45, depending on size and cultivar.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
A hardy Mediterranean classic, rosemary brings structure, scent, and flavour to your garden. Upright and evergreen, it grows up to 1.5m tall, forming a dense, aromatic shrub ideal for borders or hedges. The needle-like leaves are culinary gold—perfect for roasting meats, seasoning kumara, or infusing oils. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, rosemary is drought-tolerant once established and loves the dry, coastal conditions of Northland. Great in pots or in-ground, it's low-maintenance and bee-friendly. Prune lightly after flowering to keep its shape. Best planted in spring or early autumn.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
A fragrant favourite, lavender is prized for its purple blooms and soothing scent. This compact shrub grows 60–90cm tall and adds a splash of colour and pollinator power to any garden. Perfect for sunny, well-drained spots, especially sandy soils. Plant it along pathways where brushing past releases its calming fragrance. Ideal for teas, baking, or bath soaks. Prune after flowering to encourage a tidy, bushy shape. Avoid wet feet in winter. In Northland, plant from late winter to early summer for the best results.
Pineapple (Ananas comosus)
Yes, pineapples love it here too! These tropical showstoppers grow in a tight rosette about 1m tall and wide. After 18–24 months, each plant yields one delicious, golden fruit bursting with juicy, tangy-sweet flavour. Pineapples need a frost-free, sunny spot with excellent drainage—raised beds or large pots are ideal. Keep the soil moist, not soggy, and feed with slow-release fertiliser. Plant mid to late spring when the soil has warmed. With care, you’ll be slicing into your own Northland-grown pineapple in no time.
Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro brings lush, tropical vibes and edible roots to your edible garden. With huge, heart-shaped leaves and bold structure, it’s perfect for moist soils and semi-shaded spots. Grows over 1m tall and thrives in rich, compost-fed soil. Keep well-watered—this is a plant that loves damp feet. Plant in late spring once the soil is warm. Harvest the corms after 8–10 months. Leaves are also edible when cooked. Use in traditional boil-ups or creamy curries. A Northland staple that nourishes and impresses.
Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa)
Fast-growing and fruitful, kiwifruit vines love the warmth and deep soils of Northland. These vigorous climbers reach up to 10m and need a strong support structure. To bear fruit, plant a male and a female vine—or opt for a self-fertile variety like ‘Jenny’. The fruit is sweet, tangy, and packed with vitamin C. Perfect fresh or in desserts. Plant in late winter to early spring in a sunny, sheltered spot. Keep well-watered and fed. Prune annually in winter to control growth and encourage fruiting.
Cherimoya (Annona cherimola)
Meet the custard apple of your dreams—Cherimoya, a subtropical treasure that’s perfectly suited to Northland’s warm, humid climate. With creamy white flesh that tastes like a mash-up of banana, pineapple, and vanilla, this fruit is a true gourmet delight. Just chill, slice, and spoon it out like ice cream. It’s sensational in smoothies, desserts, or straight off the tree.
Cherimoya trees grow upright and spreading, reaching 4–6 metres at maturity. They prefer a warm, sheltered spot with full sun and fertile, free-draining soil. While they're partially self-fertile, hand pollination increases fruit yields—especially if you're after big, juicy fruit. In Hokianga, plant in spring (September–November) once the threat of frost has passed.
Keep them mulched and well-watered during dry spells, and prune to shape in late winter. Protect young trees from heavy wind and frost in their first couple of years. They’ll usually fruit within 3–5 years of planting.
Abyssinian Banana (Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii')
If you’re looking for bold, dramatic foliage in your subtropical garden, the Abyssinian Banana is a showstopper. This striking ornamental—not to be confused with edible bananas—boasts massive, paddle-like leaves in rich burgundy-red and green. It creates an instant “wow” factor in pots, tropical borders, or as a statement centrepiece in your garden.
This fast-growing herbaceous plant can reach 2–4 metres in Northland's warm climate. It loves full sun, warmth, and regular watering during the growing season. While it doesn’t produce edible fruit, its sheer beauty and jungle vibe make it a favourite among landscape designers. Ensete prefers rich, free-draining soil and benefits from a monthly liquid feed during summer for lush growth. It’s frost-tender, so in cooler microclimates, plant it in a sheltered position or bring it under cover in winter.
Plant in spring (September–November) once soil temperatures are up, and watch it take off. Great for those wanting a bold, tropical look with minimal fuss—just give it room to breathe.
MM106 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘MM106’)
If you’re dreaming of a semi-dwarf apple tree that balances strong structure with generous fruiting, MM106 is the rootstock you’ll want to get to know. This one’s the all-rounder—popular among both commercial growers and backyard orchardists for its versatility, resilience, and productivity. MM106 produces a tree around 3–4 metres tall, with a well-anchored root system that doesn’t need staking once established—ideal for Northland’s breezy hills and sloping paddocks.
It prefers free-draining soil and full sun, but can handle a bit of clay if you’ve prepped your ground right. It’s moderately vigorous and compatible with most apple varieties, making it a favourite for grafting favourites like ‘Granny Smith’, ‘Monty’s Surprise’, or ‘Braeburn’. MM106 is tolerant to woolly aphid and adapts well to drier conditions, so it’s perfect for orchard-style planting where you want decent height for airflow but not a monster tree to manage.
Best planted in late winter to early spring (August–October) once the soil starts warming up, especially if you’re grafting fresh scionwood in situ.
NorthernSpy Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘Northern Spy’)
Old-school and tough as boots, Northern Spy is a traditional rootstock still favoured by heritage growers for its disease resistance and longevity. Producing a large tree up to 5–6 metres tall, this rootstock is ideal for those wanting to graft heritage or cider apple varieties and let them sprawl like the old orchards of the Far North. It’s especially valued for its resistance to woolly aphid and adaptation to heavier, cooler soils. Northern Spy requires staking while young and a bit more time to bear fruit than dwarfing stocks, but the payoff is robust, long-lived trees with deep roots and superb drought tolerance. It’s also been known to improve the flavour of grafted varieties—a win for any serious cider or apple butter maker. Plant in winter to early spring (July–September), ideally into prepared ground with good compost. It’s not the fastest, but it’s a steady workhorse for the long haul. Pricing generally sits around $10–$15 for bare root stock.
M26 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘M26’)
For those wanting a smaller, more manageable apple tree that still delivers top-tier fruit, M26 is the boutique orchardist’s best mate. This dwarfing rootstock produces a tree about 2–2.5 metres tall—perfect for home gardens, espalier walls, or compact orchard rows. It’s compatible with most apple cultivars and is especially suited to those delicious dessert types like ‘Royal Gala’ or ‘Cox’s Orange’. M26 thrives in well-drained soil with full sun and does need staking long-term, as its root system is shallower. But what you get in return is quick fruiting (often within 2–3 years), excellent productivity, and easy harvesting height—no ladders required! Plant from July to October for strong establishment. It does prefer more attentive care—mulching, consistent watering in dry spells, and a light fertiliser boost in spring. Pricing for M26 rootstocks is usually around $6–$10 bare root, or $12–$18 potted at local suppliers.
793 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘793’)
Looking to plant on marginal soils or dry, exposed sites? Say kia ora to 793—this vigorous, hardy rootstock is made for challenging conditions. It creates a tall tree (4–5 metres), well-anchored and highly adaptable to heavier or drier soils, which makes it a favourite for shelterbelts, mixed orchard rows, or naturalistic plantings. 793 is compatible with most apple scions and is known for producing long-lived, deep-rooted trees with good disease resistance. It’s an excellent option for Northland growers wanting to create low-input, large-structure apple trees that still deliver good-quality fruit. Plant in winter or early spring (July–September) and give it space—this tree wants to stretch its roots and canopy. Prices range from $10–$15 per bare rootstock or $20+ for potted trees.
Quince Rootstock (Cydonia oblonga)
If you’re growing pears—especially the gourmet European varieties—then quince is your rootstock of choice. It produces smaller, more manageable trees (2–4 metres tall) with excellent fruiting potential and quicker maturity than seedling-grown trees. The rootstock encourages dwarfing, precociousness, and enhanced fruit quality, particularly for buttery, melt-in-your-mouth pears like ‘Doyenné du Comice’ or ‘Beurré Bosc’. Quince thrives in full sun, well-drained soils, and benefits from regular feeding with compost or seaweed tea. In Northland, it’s best to plant from July to September for ideal establishment. Note that some pear varieties may need interstock to be compatible with quince. Used widely in gourmet orchard setups and backyard edible gardens, quince rootstock is available for $8–$12 (bare root) or $15–$20 potted.
Peach Rootstock (Prunus persica or Prunus davidiana)
To craft the perfect peach or nectarine tree, you need the right foundation—and a good peach rootstock delivers both vigour and flavour. Seedling peach rootstocks (like Prunus persica) produce medium to large trees (3–5 metres), while dwarfing selections or Prunus davidiana can be used for more compact trees. These rootstocks love warmth, sunshine, and good drainage—right at home in Northland’s subtropical summers. They’re best suited to fertile, loamy soil and need consistent moisture during the growing season. Graft your favourite heirloom or white-flesh peach onto these for sweet-as, juicy summer harvests. Plant in early spring (August–October) when the soil is warming. Protect young trees from strong winds and keep well-mulched. Bare root stocks range from $8 to $12, and potted versions go for $15–$25 depending on size.
MM106 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘MM106’)
MM106 is a semi-dwarf apple rootstock that produces trees approximately 70–75% the size of standard apple trees. It is known for its early fruiting, typically within 3–4 years, and high productivity. This rootstock is well-suited for Northland's conditions, thriving in free-draining soils with full sun exposure. It is moderately vigorous and compatible with most apple cultivars, including 'Granny Smith', 'Monty's Surprise', and 'Braeburn'. MM106 is resistant to woolly aphid but is susceptible to crown and root rots, making it unsuitable for wet soils. Once established, it requires minimal staking and is drought-tolerant. Best planted in late winter to early spring (August–October). Expect to pay around $8–$12 for bare root MM106 stocks or $15–$20 for potted options at local nurseries.
Northern Spy Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘Northern Spy’)
Northern Spy is a traditional apple rootstock that produces large, robust trees, approximately 100% the size of standard apple trees. It is valued for its resistance to woolly aphid and adaptability to heavier, cooler soils. While it requires staking when young and takes longer to bear fruit compared to dwarfing rootstocks, it offers excellent drought tolerance and deep rooting. This rootstock is ideal for heritage or cider apple varieties and is known to improve the flavor of grafted cultivars. Plant in winter to early spring (July–September) in well-prepared ground with good compost. Pricing generally sits around $10–$15 for bare root stock.
M26 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘M26’)
M26 is a dwarfing apple rootstock that produces compact trees, approximately 60–65% the size of standard apple trees. It is ideal for home gardens, espalier walls, or compact orchard rows, reaching about 2–2.5 meters in height. Compatible with most apple cultivars, M26 is especially suited for dessert types like 'Royal Gala' or 'Cox’s Orange'. It thrives in well-drained soils with full sun and requires staking due to its shallow root system. M26 offers quick fruiting, often within 2–3 years, and is excellent for easy harvesting. Plant from July to October for strong establishment. It prefers attentive care, including mulching, consistent watering in dry spells, and a light fertilizer boost in spring. Pricing for M26 rootstocks is usually around $6–$10 bare root, or $12–$18 potted at local suppliers.
793 Apple Rootstock (Malus domestica ‘793’)
Looking to plant on marginal soils or dry, exposed sites? Say kia ora to 793—this vigorous, hardy rootstock is made for challenging conditions. It creates a tall tree (4–5 metres), well-anchored and highly adaptable to heavier or drier soils, which makes it a favourite for shelterbelts, mixed orchard rows, or naturalistic plantings. 793 is compatible with most apple scions and is known for producing long-lived, deep-rooted trees with good disease resistance. It’s an excellent option for Northland growers wanting to create low-input, large-structure apple trees that still deliver good-quality fruit. Plant in winter or early spring (July–September) and give it space—this tree wants to stretch its roots and canopy.Prices range from $10–$15 per bare rootstock or $20+ for potted trees.
Quince Rootstock (Cydonia oblonga)
Quince is a dwarfing rootstock for pears, producing smaller, more manageable trees, approximately 60–70% the size of standard pear trees. It induces early, regular cropping and enhances fruit quality, particularly for gourmet European varieties like 'Doyenné du Comice' or 'Beurré Bosc'. Quince thrives in full sun with well-drained soils and benefits from regular feeding with compost or seaweed tea. In Northland, plant from July to September for ideal establishment. Note that some pear varieties may need interstock to be compatible with quince. Quince rootstock is available for $8–$12 (bare root) or $15–$20 potted.
Peach Rootstock (Prunus persica or Prunus davidiana)
Peach rootstocks, such as Prunus persica or Prunus davidiana, are used to craft vigorous and flavorful peach or nectarine trees. Seedling peach rootstocks produce medium to large trees (3–5 meters), while dwarfing selections or Prunus davidiana can be used for more compact trees. These rootstocks love warmth, sunshine, and good drainage, making them well-suited for Northland's subtropical summers. They are best suited to fertile, loamy soil and need consistent moisture during the growing season. Graft your favorite heirloom or white-flesh peach onto these for sweet, juicy summer harvests. Plant in early spring (August–October) when the soil is warming. Protect young trees from strong winds and keep well-mulched. Bare root stocks range from $8 to $12, and potted versions go for $15–$25 depending on size.
Seckel Pear (Pyrus communis 'Seckel')
Seckel Pear, affectionately known as the "sugar pear," is a compact, self-fertile variety renowned for its rich, honeyed sweetness. Reaching a modest height of 4 metres and a width of 2.5 metres, it's perfect for smaller orchards or urban gardens. This variety thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and benefits from full sun exposure. Planting is best undertaken in late winter to early spring (August–October) to ensure robust establishment. Seckel Pear is particularly valued for its resistance to fire blight, making it a hardy choice for Northland's subtropical climate. Expect to pay around $59.95 for a 14L potted tree at local nurseries.
River Peach (Prunus persica)
The River Peach is a hardy, late-season variety that flourishes in Northland's coastal conditions. With a growth habit of 3–4 metres in height, it produces large, juicy peaches with a rich, sweet flavour. Ideal for espalier or standard orchard plantings, it requires well-drained soil and full sun. Planting should occur in early spring (August–September) to align with the region's climate. River Peach is known for its consistent fruiting and adaptability to varying soil types.
Bon Chretien (Pyrus communis 'Williams Bon Chretien')
Bon Chretien, commonly known as Williams Pear, is a classic variety celebrated for its juicy, aromatic flesh and smooth skin. Growing to approximately 6 metres in height, it thrives in fertile, well-drained soils with full sun exposure. This variety is partially self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with cultivars like Doyenné du Comice. Planting is best done in late winter to early spring (August–October). Bon Chretien is ideal for fresh eating, canning, and preserving.
Winesap Apple (Malus domestica 'Winesap')
Winesap Apple is a robust, late-season variety known for its firm texture and spicy-sweet flavour. Reaching a height of 4–5 metres, it thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils with full sun exposure. This variety is partially self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with cultivars like Jonathan or Granny Smith. Planting should occur in early spring (August–September). Winesap is excellent for fresh eating, cider making, and baking.
Hayward Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa 'Hayward')
Hayward Kiwi is the quintessential kiwi fruit vine, producing large, fuzzy fruits with a tangy-sweet flavour. Growing vigorously to 8–12 metres, it requires a sturdy trellis and full sun exposure. Both male and female plants are needed for pollination, unless a self-fertile variety is chosen. Planting is best done in early spring (August–September). Hayward Kiwi is ideal for fresh consumption, smoothies, and desserts.
Dawn O'Leary Apple (Malus domestica 'Dawn O'Leary')
Dawn O'Leary Apple is a mid-season variety known for its crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavour. Reaching a height of 3–4 metres, it thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with full sun exposure. This variety is partially self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with cultivars like Braeburn or Gala. Planting should occur in early spring (August–September). Dawn O'Leary is excellent for fresh eating and juicing.
Jonathan Apple (Malus domestica 'Jonathan')
Jonathan Apple is a classic variety celebrated for its tangy-sweet flavour and crisp texture. Growing to approximately 4–5 metres in height, it thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soils with full sun exposure. This variety is partially self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with cultivars like Winesap or Granny Smith. Planting should occur in early spring (August–September). Jonathan is ideal for fresh eating, pies, and applesauce.
McIntyre GD Apple (Malus domestica 'McIntyre')
McIntyre GD Apple is a mid-season variety known for its crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavour. Reaching a height of 3–4 metres, it thrives in well-drained, fertile soils with full sun exposure. This variety is partially self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination with cultivars like Braeburn or Gala. Planting should occur in early spring (August–September). McIntyre GD is excellent for fresh eating and juicing.
Red Delicious Apple (Malus domestica 'Red Delicious')
Red Delicious Apple is a classic variety known for its deep red colour and sweet flavour. Growing to approximately 4–5 metres in height, it thrives in well drained soil.
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
A hardy, fast-growing shrub or small tree, elderberry is prized for both its ornamental beauty and versatile harvest. The creamy-white flower heads and dark purple berries have long been used in traditional teas, syrups, wines, and jams. Elderberry thrives in a wide range of soils—from moist to dry, fertile ground—and grows well in both full sun and part shade. Its lush foliage and floral display make it ideal for edible hedges or wildlife gardens. In Northland, plant in early spring (September to October) for best establishment and flowering. Regular pruning after fruiting helps maintain shape and vigour.
Japanese Raisin Tree (Diospyros lotus)
Also known as the Date Plum, this deciduous tree brings elegance and sweet rewards. Its glossy leaves turn golden in autumn, and the fruit—small, plum-like drupes—ripen to a rich, sweet flavour, enjoyed fresh or dried. Japanese Raisin thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for warm, sheltered Northland gardens. It reaches 6–10m at maturity and offers excellent shade or orchard diversity. Plant in early spring (September–October) to establish before winter. A beautiful, low-fuss tree with edible charm.
Red Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum)
Red tamarillos are tropical treasures for the Northland garden. With bold, fast-growing foliage and deep red fruit, these small trees (up to 2.5m) love full sun, shelter from strong wind, and free-draining soil. The fruit is tangy and rich—delicious raw, grilled, or simmered into chutneys. Tamarillos enjoy regular watering through dry spells and benefit from organic mulch. Grafted trees can fruit in 2–3 years. Plant in early spring (September to October) once frosts have passed.
Gold Tamarillo (Solanum betaceum)
Softer and sweeter than its red cousin, the gold tamarillo is a stunning addition to edible gardens. The bright golden fruit is less acidic, making it perfect for fresh eating or bright preserves. Like all tamarillos, it thrives in a warm, sunny, well-drained spot and grows up to 2.5m tall. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and mulch for moisture retention. Grafted trees begin fruiting in 2–3 years. Plant in early spring (September to October).