Syzygium maire facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swamp maire |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Syzygium
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| Species: |
maire
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| Synonyms | |
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Eugenia maire A.Cunn. |
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The swamp maire (scientific name: Syzygium maire) is a special tree that stays green all year. It is found only in New Zealand. This tree grows naturally across the North Island and the top part of the South Island.
The Māori people call this tree maire tawake. It loves to grow in wet places like swamps. It can even grow special "breathing roots" in very wet soil. But it's also tough and can live in drier spots too!
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What is Swamp Maire?
The swamp maire is a type of evergreen tree. This means it keeps its leaves all year round. It does not lose them in autumn like some other trees.
It is a unique tree because it is endemic to New Zealand. This means it grows naturally only in New Zealand and nowhere else in the world.
Where Does Swamp Maire Grow?
Swamp maire trees are often found in wetland areas. These are places where the ground is very wet, like swamps or along riverbanks. The tree has special roots that help it get air even when the soil is waterlogged.
Even though it likes wet feet, the swamp maire can also grow in places that are not as wet. This makes it a very adaptable tree.
Flowers and Fruit
The swamp maire tree produces beautiful creamy-white flowers. These flowers usually appear in autumn. They add a lovely touch to the tree's green leaves.
After the flowers, the tree grows bright red fruits. These fruits are called drupes. A drupe is a type of fruit that has a hard pit or stone inside, like a peach or a cherry. The fruits are about 3 centimeters long. They ripen in late winter.
Edible Fruits
The bright red fruits of the swamp maire are safe to eat. You can enjoy them raw, straight from the tree. They can also be cooked. These fruits are good for you because they are full of antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect your body's cells.
Swamp Maire in Gardens
People sometimes plant swamp maire trees in their gardens. They are popular as ornamental plants. This means they are grown because they look nice. Their evergreen leaves, pretty flowers, and bright red fruits make them a great addition to many landscapes.
It is important to know that the swamp maire is not related to other trees also called "maire." Those other trees belong to a different group of plants called Nestegis.
