New Zealand Laurel (Corynocarpus laevigatus)

Family: Corynocarpaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Corynocarpus laevigatus is an evergreen Tree growing to 12 m (39ft) by 8 m (26ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from December to February. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and pulpy. — One report says that it is poisonous raw, though the writer might have been confused with the seed.; The seed needs to be soaked in salt water or thoroughly boiled or roasted in order to destroy a deleterious principle.; A staple food of the Maoris, it contains a tasteless farinaceous substance.; The seed contains about 11% protein and 58% carbohydrate.

Habitat & North American Range

Coastal and lowland forest, south to latitude 44°south. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)