Meryta sinclairii, often known as the "Puka" tree, is a native New Zealand plant that boasts glossy, dark green leaves and an exotic, tropical appearance. Its impressive size and unique foliage make it a captivating addition to any garden.
Planting Calendar
Puka does best when planted in autumn and spring.
Harvest In
Flowers from August to April
Clusters of very small white-green inconspicuous flowers are produced in August to April, along with black shiny fruit which are carried all year long. Fruits take a year to mature and as they begin to ripen to black. Birds are attracted to them.
Prepare
Puka is an impressive specimen tree for any garden, especially native or tropical settings. It looks great in patio pots too, but ensure that it does not become too root-bound. Best used as a specimen tree, in the back of a large native planting border or to give a tropical look. Great for coastal gardens as it is both wind and salt tolerant.
Position
Plant Puka in full sun to partial shade with deep, well-drained but moist soil. If planted in partial shade, the Puka will generally be taller than if planted in full sun, as stems will shoot up until leaves are in sunlight before filling out.
Soil
When planted into the ground, Puka prefer a deep, free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil. Drainage is key in areas prone to excess water. Add pumice, or sand to improve drainage and plant onto a raised mound. Too much water or wet soil will cause fungal root problems and plant demise. Add Rootmate to the soil when planting to help protect against root diseases.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers, plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Protecting
Protect from frosts.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground. Replenish mulch each spring.
Spraying
Pukas are susceptible to black spot in humid conditions, and phytophthora (root rot) or verticillium wilt in wet soil conditions. Symptoms are leaves turning yellow and dropping off and gum oozing from a wound in the tree.
Pruning
Encourage branching of the tree by pinching out the growing tips. Ensure pruning is done in spring when the sap is rising.
Expert Tip
Puke will tend to grow upright and once it flowers this will encourage the plant to develop multiple branches.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water my Puka?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods.
When is the best time to plant Puka?
The best time to plant Puka is during spring or autumn when the temperatures are mild and rainfall is more regular.
How do I prune Puka?
Encourage branching of the tree by pinching out the growing tips. Ensure pruning is done in spring when the sap is rising.
How much sunlight does a Puka need?
Puka thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a spot where it gets plenty of light but can also tolerate some shade during the day.
What type of soil is best for Puka?
When planted into the ground, Puka prefer a deep, free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil. Drainage is key in areas prone to excess water. Add pumice, or sand to improve drainage and plant onto a raised mound. Too much water or wet soil will cause fungal root problems and plant demise. Add Rootmate to the soil when planting to help protect against root diseases.