Karaka (tree)
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| Corynocarpus laevigatus |
Karaka (Corynocarpus laevigatus, Corynocarpaceae) is an evergreen tree with large glossy leaves. It is endemic to New Zealand.
It flowers in May and June and the seeds ripen in December to February. The pulp of the fruit is edible but the seeds are poisonous if eaten raw. If soaked in salt water, boiled or roasted, the seeds become edible.
It grows to heights of 9 to 12 metres and has a trunk 60 cm in diameter. Alternative but little used names for this tree are Kopi and New Zealand laurel.
[edit] References
- Corynocarpus laevigatus. Accessed 22 May 2005
- Detailed information on New Zealand Laurel (Corynocarpus laevigata). Accessed 22 May 2005
- Karaka. Accessed 22 May 2005
