Rongoa Rakau

Botanical Name:   Myrsine Australis

Maori Name:         Mapou

Common Name:    Red Matipo

Medicinal Use:      Used for toothache and for cleaning teeth (as defined in Landcare dbase)

I like this rakau, it grows prolifically where I live in Tamaki Makaurau.  It is also found throughout the motu.

It's not a bad looking rakau with its crinkly leaves. It can be easily identified by red and purple like splotches on the leaves and its red stems and bark.  This rakau is usually found around the outer edges of the ngahere.

Medicinally the rakau can by used for pain management.