Paratrophis banksii, commonly known as the large-leaved milk tree or by the Māori name ewekuri, is a species of plant in the family Moraceae that is endemic to New Zealand. The name "milk tree" comes from the milky sap the tree exudes when cut or damaged.
| Paratrophis banksii | |
|---|---|
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Scientific classification 
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| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Paratrophis |
| Species: | P. banksii
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| Binomial name | |
| Paratrophis banksii Cheeseman (1906)
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| Synonyms[1] | |
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Range
editStreblus banksii is found in areas of coastal and lowland forest in the North Island and Marlborough, where it can grow 9–12 metres (30–39 feet) high. It is now also found on Mana Island, where it has been planted in several locations to aid in reforestation.[2]
Description
editThe leaves are 4–9 centimetres (1+1⁄2–3+1⁄2 inches) long and net-veined with a toothed edge. The tree has numerous bright yellow flowers between September and November followed by bright red-orange ovoid fruits.[3]
Ecology
editThe leaves, fruit, and seeds are heavily browsed by rodents and possums. The milk tree responds well to rodent removal.[4]
References
edit- ^ Paratrophis banksii Cheeseman. Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 23 April 2024.
- ^ "Mana Island ecological restoration plan review". www.doc.govt.nz. Retrieved 2024-11-18.
- ^ "Ewekuri (Large-leaved milk tree) Streblus banksii". Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network. Retrieved 22 October 2012.
- ^ "Streblus banksii". New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved 2024-11-19.
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