There are two other species of Myrsine in the park. One is found in the rainforests that are at lower elevations or mid-elevation woodlands, while the other is in dry forests. Neither of these other species is very common.
| This tree is usually no taller than 30 feet. However, Stone and Pratt (1994) describe the potential of this tree in the deep ash soils of the kipukas as growing very tall, up to 60 ft or more. This makes them one of the canopy trees in these habitats. Such trees can develop trunks two to three feet in diameter. |  |
| The
leaves are thick, dark green (sometimes greenish yellow) and often about 5 inches
long and about 2 inches wide (Stone and Pratt 1994: 181).
They
have a shiny surface.
Young leaves are sometimes dark reddish purple (Wagner, et al. 1990: 942). The margin is smooth. Look for light-colored midribs and inconspicuous lateral veins. Although the leaves vary in shape, also look for the widest part of the blade being near the tip. |
 |
| An identification characteristic, in the absence of flowers or fruit, are the distinctively bright magenta-pink tined young leaves (Stone and Pratt 1994: 181). |
| Flowers
are small and greenish. Look for them below the leaves.
Small, round fruits are also found below the leaves. Look for them in clusters. They are purplish black, 8 to 10 mm in diameter (Wagner, et al. 1990: 942). |
 |
| Near Puhimau Hotspot | Some flowers and many new leaves. | 5/8/01 |