Titoki, scientifically known as Alectryon excelsus, is a tree known for its glossy, pinnate leaves and distinctive red fruits. These trees add a touch of natural beauty to gardens and are valued for their resilience. Titoki trees are an excellent choice for gardeners interested in the unique charm they bring to their outdoor spaces.
Planting Calendar
Titoki can be planted throughout the year, but grow best when planted in Spring and Autumn, giving it time to establish its roots before the heat of summer.
Prepare
Due to its diversity Titoki is one of New Zealand most planted native trees. Often planted on street verges, it also makes a great shade tree in the home garden and can also be clipped into a hedge. Titoki produces small, insignificant greenish-white flowers in clusters during spring, which then turn into small, round, fleshy fruits that turn from green to red as they ripen. These fruits are a source of food for the native Kererū and other bird species.
Position
Titoki like a position in either full sun to part shade, ideally with some protection of harsh winds.
Soil
Titoki prefer a 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.
Plant
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.
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. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
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
Stake well at planting to avoid root disturbance in strong winds.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. 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. Replenish mulch each spring.
Spraying
Bronze beetle and Bag moth caterpillars can effect titokis, spray with BioNeem and Groventive Garden if needed.
Pruning
Titokis can be grown as a hedge, prune regularly to encourage new growth to make a dense hedge. Otherwise prune to maintain size and shape.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Browning of leaves indicates that the soil has dried out at some point. Prune off any brown growth and increase watering.
Expert Tip
New growth is very soft and is easily damaged by winds, leaving a bare twig showing. Prune these back for a burst of new growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Titoki?
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. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
When does Titoki flower?
Titoki typically flowers in spring with small, red flowers that attract native birds.
Does Titoki require pruning?
Titokis can be grown as a hedge, prune regularly to encourage new growth to make a dense hedge. Otherwise prune to maintain size and shape.
Can Titoki be grown in a container?
Titoki is best suited for open ground but can be grown in a large container if pruned regularly to manage its size
How big does Titoki grow?
Titoki trees can grow up to 20 metres tall, making them a substantial addition to any garden.