Plagianthus divaricatus
Saltmarsh Ribbonwood / Mākaka
Description:
Hardy New Zealand native and endemic shrub with a distinctive dense, tangled growth habit and fine, interlacing branches. Its small, narrow green leaves are semi-deciduous, with some foliage being lost during winter. In spring, it produces small cream-coloured flowers, with the male flowers being sweetly scented. Naturally found around estuaries, salt marshes, coastal wetlands and other saline environments, it is particularly well suited to difficult coastal conditions and wet soils. Its wiry, architectural form also makes it an interesting choice for native and low-maintenance landscapes.
Height:
1.5–2m
Width:
1.5–2m
Position:
Full sun. Performs best in an open, sunny position and is particularly well suited to exposed coastal sites. Tolerates wind, salt exposure and wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for coastal and estuarine planting.
Soil:
Adaptable and particularly tolerant of moist, wet and saline soils. Naturally grows in estuaries, salt marshes, coastal gravels and other areas influenced by salt water. Good drainage is beneficial in general garden situations, although it can tolerate wetter soils than many other shrubs.
Uses:
- Coastal and seaside gardens
- Wetland and estuary planting
- Native gardens
- Low shelter and screening
- Informal hedging
- Riparian planting
- Revegetation and restoration projects
- Wildlife-friendly landscapes
Care Tips:
- Water regularly during establishment; once established it is hardy and well adapted to moist conditions
- Performs particularly well where soil remains naturally moist
- Prune lightly if required to maintain a more compact shape or encourage denser growth
- Can be trimmed as a low informal hedge or shelter planting
- Mulch around the base to suppress weeds and retain moisture, keeping mulch away from the stems
- Avoid unnecessary heavy pruning, as its naturally tangled form is part of its character
- Particularly suited to coastal sites where salt spray, wind and wet soils can make plant selection challenging
- Semi-deciduous, so some leaf loss during winter is normal
- Choose locally eco-sourced plants where possible for coastal restoration and native planting projects
We have made every effort to display as accurately as possible the grade and quality of the plant in the images.
Plants are subject to availability; there is a slight possibility the plants can be sold before your order is processed. In this instance we can offer a refund or credit and let you know when more plants become available.
