Taiwan Cherry (also known as bell flower cherry) is an invasive tree that is rapidly colonising the Mokoroa and Waiewe areas.

It produces fruit that is very palatable to birds and is therefore being spread widely. The seeds readily germinate, soon grow too big to easily hand pull, and if cut they re-grow. If not controlled now, it will become a major problem as it has in other parts of New Zealand, and it will replace the canopy of native bush areas.

Taiwan Cherry is listed as a restricted plant in the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Pest Management Plan.

It was introduced into NZ in 1988 and has rapidly naturalised. Taiwan Cherry was popularised as the “Tui Tree” because it attracted these birds in winter when there was little other food. Like the possum, what seemed a good idea has turned into a major pest. Some cultivars are mistakenly sold as sterile and are best avoided.

Project Kowhai has been established to lead a community project to remove these trees.

Kowhai is an alternative tree that flowers early in spring and provides food for tui and other native birds. Native fuchsia or grevilleas are good alternatives, or puriri and rewarewa on larger areas of land.

For more information on how to identify and remove Taiwan Cherry from your own property, or how you can help remove it from public land, download the flyer below.

Project Kowai flyer - (PDF, 505 KB)