Last time I visited New Zealand I was unable to find any of these remarkable little trees. Can anyone suggest a good place to see them? Are they allowed to grow or do they get removed because of their ferocious stinging hairs?
Bob
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: Where to see Ongaonga or 'Nettle Tree' (Urtica fer
Hi Bob--have you been to the Otari plant reserve in Wellington NZ, I'm almost certain you could see your Ongaonga there!! They are awful little stingers and I 've had several close encounters with them, they like shady damp gullies and there are plenty of those in this district. Keep in touch and when you next visit NZ I'm sure your search will be successful!!
RE: Where to see Ongaonga or 'Nettle Tree' (Urtica fer
Out on the east coast of the North Island, from Castlepoint south you'll find stands of the stuff. (The politest word I could manage.) It is found on bush margins, and also in gullies in fairly dry areas.
There were stands at Battle Hill, again in the Wellington area, near Pauatahanui Inlet.
There are smaller native versions which can usually be found while scrambling up/down steep gullies by the simple means of putting out an unwary hand.
The stings are much stronger than those of Urtica urens or dioica and linger for days. Nastier in dry weather.
RE: Where to see Ongaonga or 'Nettle Tree' (Urtica fer
I have just returned from a visit to Auckland, Oratia Native Plant Nursery, where they have some great specimens growing. No Admiral larvae though unfortunately.
