Meryta Sinclairii Moonlight

Meryta Sinclairii ‘Moonlight’ | Variegated Puka

Bring home a piece of New Zealand’s natural heritage with the magnificent Meryta Sinclairii ‘Moonlight’ – the variegated Puka tree.

If you love the bold, top-heavy style of a Fiddle Leaf Fig but want a native twist, this plant delivers it in spades. Also known as the NZ Puka or Paddle Leaf Puka, this evergreen is native to the Hen and Chicken Islands, where it can reach up to 8 m tall outdoors.

Important Note: This is primarily an outdoor plant. It can only be grown indoors if positioned in full sun for most of the day. In shaded interiors, it will decline over time.

A Rare Variegated Beauty

The ‘Moonlight’ variety is a rare form with striking cream and yellow variegation that glows against its glossy green leaves. While it grows slower than the wild type, its foliage is highly ornamental and adds a luminous focal point to gardens, patios, or very bright indoor spaces.

A Plant with History

Puka entered European records in the late 1700s when botanist William Colenso encountered a sacred tree protected by locals. He consulted Dr. Sinclair, a naturalist, about the species — and thus it was named Meryta Sinclairii in his honour.

Why Choose This Puka?

• Pot Size: 40 cm

• Height: Approximately 1.2m – 1.3 m tall — a substantial, established specimen.

• Native Heritage: Endemic to New Zealand.

• Rare Variegation: Cream and yellow patterned leaves.

• Condition: Grown under shade cloth and sheltered from wind to ensure a healthy start in your garden.

Care Requirements

• Light: Outdoors — full sun to partial shade. Indoors — only in full sun (north-facing window or conservatory).

• Water: Allow top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings.

• Temperature: Warm-loving; protect from frost.

• Position: Sheltered from strong winds when young.

Please Note

• Premium White Egg Planter (45 cm) pictured is not included — plant is supplied in a standard 40 cm nursery pot.

• For a designer look, you can pair it with one of our premium planters (available separately).