Vitex lucens (Pūriri), family Lamiaceae, is a large, evergreen New Zealand native tree valued for its dense, glossy foliage and spreading canopy. It can grow up to 10–20 m tall with a broad, rounded form, making it an excellent shade and specimen tree for larger gardens and landscapes. Endemic to New Zealand, it is naturally found in the North Island and northern South Island in lowland and coastal forests. It typically spreads 8–12 m wide, forming a substantial canopy at maturity. Growth is moderate to fast in warm conditions, establishing steadily and developing into a long-lived tree. It produces attractive tubular flowers that range from pink to red, often appearing throughout the year but peaking in spring and summer, followed by fleshy red berries that are highly attractive to birds. It tolerates coastal conditions, wind, and periods of dryness once established, prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, and is sensitive to heavy frost when young, performing best in warmer, sheltered locations.
Vitex lucerns - Puriri
Botanical Name Vitex lucens Common Name Pūriri Family Lamiaceae Type Large Tree Origin New Zealand Mature Height 10-20m Mature Spread 8-10 m Sun Requirements full sun to partial shade Soil Well-drained soils Flowering attractive tubular flowers that range from pink to red Wind Tolerance Excellent — tolerates wind and salt spray; suitable for coastal sites Frost Tolerance Sensitive when young Drought Tolerance Good Growth Rate Modirate to fast Maintenance Very low Conservation Status Not Threatened
