About Macrolearia colensoi (Hook.fil.) Saldivia
Macrolearia colensoi is a tough, rigid woody plant that can grow into a tree reaching 5 metres (16 feet) in height. It produces thick, serrated leaves that measure 8–20 cm (3.1–7.9 in) long and 3–6 cm (1.2–2.4 in) wide. The upper surface of the leaves is grey-green, while the underside is white or buff and covered in dense hairs. Its bark is light brown and papery, and its branches are covered in woolly hairs. Flowers of this species are typically dark red or yellow. Macrolearia colensoi is endemic to New Zealand. It is common in sub-alpine scrub, and occurs in the eastern and southern ranges of the North Island, western areas of the South Island, Stewart Island, and some outlying New Zealand islands. In the far south of New Zealand, it can grow at elevations down to sea level.
