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Toro
Myrsine salicina 11.JPG
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
(unranked):
(unranked):
(unranked):
Order:
Family:
Genus:
Rapanea
Species:
R. salicina
Binomial name
Rapanea salicina
(Heward) Mez
Synonyms
  • Myrsine salicina Heward
  • Suttonia salicina (Heward) Hook. f.

Rapanea salicina (the accepted/preferred name in New Zealand is Myrsine salicina), commonly known as toro, is a species of shrub or small tree native to New Zealand.

Description

Toro grows to 10 metres in height, with a trunk to 60 cm in diameter. It has long oblong shaped leaves that are thick, glossy and leathery. Clusters of small (3 – 5 mm across) cream to pale pink coloured flowers are produced along the branches in spring, followed by single seeded, reddy-orange fruits.

Distribution

This species is found on both the North and South Islands from the North Cape to southern Westland. Its preferred habitat is lowland to montane forest.

Threats

Toro is threatened in areas where the introduced possum occurs, as it is one of their preferred foods.

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