Horopito tree and its uses

What is horopito?

Horopito - pseudowintera colorata, is a much loved native tree from Aotearoa, New Zealand. 

Horopito comes from an ancient lineage of flowering plants known as the Winteraceae family.   It is a slow growing tree that can be easily spotted by its blotchy red, yellow or green and red mottled leaves.

There is more than one chemo type of horopito tree in New Zealand and the leaf colouring varies between types.

Where does horopito grow?

Horopito It is not widespread across New Zealand like some of our other native plants. It is found in areas across New Zealand where the climate is more damp and cold.

A common place where horopito grows is near Ruapehu.  Ruapehu is known for its cold and icy climate.

How was horopito used historically?

Horopito plays an important role in traditional Māori medicine.  It was used to treat both internal and external health issues. 

Māori used to chew horopito leaf to treat toothache, to heal fungal skin problems and to support stomach complaints by creating a drink that was consumed like a herbal tea. European settlers also used horopito leaf to treat stomach issues.

How is horopito used today?

Horopito has a wide variety of uses, from health and wellness through to culinary.  It is applied as a hero ingredient in body care products such as creams and balms and health  products.

Horopito is also used in culinary for spices, salts, and unique beverages.  The product list is growing on the many ways it is being used.

What is the flavour profile of horopito?

Numbing & stinging effect - Horopito has a floral flavour at first bite, but then it produces an intense numbing and almost stinging effect on the tongue. 

This special tree has a compound in its leaf called polygodial. The more polygodial the more intensive stinging effect in the mouth. 

If you want a unique experience try chewing a tiny piece of horopito leaf straight off the tree. 

Is there any scientific research on horopito? 

Yes there is, it is fair to say that more public research will be available in the coming years due to interest in horopito's bio active compounds within its leaves. 

Horopito - pseudowintera colorata contains a variety of wellness properties with one of its main properties being polygodial. 

Polygodial contains anti fungal, anti bacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti cancer properties. 

Horopito in our product range

We harvest from our stand of organic horopito trees.  Our Kawakawa & Horopito flaky salt is a natural flavour enhancer and finishing salt.

Our Kawakawa latte also contains horopito leaf. This gives the latte a pleasing and warming effect that lasts on the palate.