Ngaio
Genus and Species:	Myoporaceae Myoporum Laetum
Maori Name:	Ngaio
Maximum height:	10m
The Ngaio is a coastal tree reaching a height of 10 m. It has olive green leaves with small see-through oil glands. It has white flowers in late spring, followed by small purple fruit in autumn which is eaten by native birds. Easily propagated by wood cuttings from autumn to mid winter. Maori use crushed Ngaio leaves rubbed on their skin as an insect deterrent. An infusion of the leaves used as a hair rinse is said to impart a glossy sheen to dark hair. Chewing the leaves also stopped toothache.