Elaeocarpus dentatus, commonly known as hinau, is a deciduous tree native to the lowland and lower montane forests of New Zealand, found on both the North and South Islands. It typically reaches heights of up to 59 feet (18 meters) and has a straight trunk with smooth, dark bark. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and toothed, contributing to the tree’s attractive foliage. In spring, hinau produces clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers that are quite showy and attract a variety of pollinators. By late summer, these flowers give way to fleshy, purple-black fruit that is a food source for birds.

Hinau is valued for its ecological role and cultural significance. The heartwood is durable and has been traditionally used for fence posts. In cultivation, hinau can be used as a specimen tree in parks and large gardens, and its flowers are beneficial for attracting native birds. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly grown outside of New Zealand, it can be a unique addition to arboretums and botanical gardens focusing on Southern Hemisphere flora.CC BY-SA 4.0