Kawakawa
Kawakawa plant growing at Native Tree Farm
What Is Kawakawa?
Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) is a native New Zealand plant known for its aromatic heart-shaped leaves. It is a small to medium-sized plant that grows under shade of other trees and can be located throughout the warmer regions of New Zealand.
The leaf is the part most commonly used, traditionally prepared as a tea, as well as in balms, oils, and other applications. Kawakawa is used in a range of ways depending on how the leaf is prepared and processed.
Historical uses: Kawakawa has long held cultural importance within Māori tradition. Kawakawa was often prepared as an infusion and consumed as a warming drink, and associated with digestive comfort.
External uses of kawakawa leaf included: Symbolic protection, bruises, inflammation, skin irritation and cuts and wounds. The leaf was placed onto the area and secured with binding material.
Why kawakawa matters: Kawakawa is one of New Zealand's most distinctive native botanicals, valued for both its traditional use and its unique flavour profile.
How we work with kawakawa: Our kawakawa is currently wild-harvested in small batches. We are also developing certified organic plantings, with harvesting planned from late 2026.
Leaves are gently dried under controlled conditions and minimally processed to preserve their natural character and flavour. The dried leaf is then packed as a single-ingredient tea or used in selected formulations.
Botanical profile:
Scientific name: Piper excelsum
Origin: Native to New Zealand
Plant type: Evergreen shrub
Harvested part: Leaf
Flavour profile: Earthy, warming, subtly spiced
Kawakawa is most commonly experienced as a tea. If you would like to try kawakawa as a tea see our kawakawa tea here.
Available products: