Collospermum

Basic Information

Common Name: Collospermum
Scientific Name: Collospermum spicatum
Native Habitat: Native to New Zealand, where it is found as an epiphyte growing on trees or sometimes on the ground, primarily in wetter forests throughout the North Island and the northern parts of the South Island.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus Collospermum belongs to the Asteliaceae family, though it was historically often placed within Liliaceae or Asparagaceae before modern phylogenetic studies. The species Collospermum spicatum, commonly known in Māori as kāwharawhara, is one of the more widespread and well-known members of the genus in New Zealand. Like many plants native to this region, its formal botanical description and study largely coincided with the arrival and exploration of European botanists in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Early botanical exploration in New Zealand was spearheaded by figures like Sir Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander, who accompanied Captain James Cook on his voyages. While their initial collections laid the groundwork, many species were described later by subsequent botanists working with collections sent back to Europe or establishing themselves in New Zealand. The specific epithet ‘spicatum’ refers to the spike-like inflorescence, a key distinguishing feature of the plant.

Collospermum plants are classic examples of epiphytes – plants that grow harmlessly on another plant (typically a tree) and derive moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, and accumulated debris rather than from the host tree itself. This adaptation is particularly prevalent in the humid, temperate rainforests of New Zealand. The Māori people have long been familiar with kāwharawhara, integrating it into their traditional knowledge and uses, although its practical applications were perhaps less extensive than some other native plants. The dense, water-holding bases of their leaves may have held cultural significance or minor practical uses.

Unlike many plants that have been extensively cultivated, hybridized, and commercialized for ornamental purposes globally, Collospermum spicatum remains relatively rooted in its native context. It is a common and recognisable component of the New Zealand forest ecosystem. While it is sometimes grown in cultivation within New Zealand, particularly in gardens aiming to replicate native habitats, it has not been widely adopted as a houseplant or garden ornamental internationally. Its cultivation history is more one of ecological interest and native plant gardening rather than large-scale commercial propagation or specific cultivar development by individual cultivators. The focus on Collospermum has historically been more ecological and taxonomic, understanding its role in the forest canopy and its botanical relationships, rather than its potential as a global commodity or horticultural subject. Its discovery and subsequent study are intrinsically linked to the broader botanical cataloging of New Zealand’s unique flora, a process driven by numerous botanists over two centuries rather than a single pivotal discoverer or cultivator.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Collospermum spicatum exhibits fascinating adaptations for its epiphytic lifestyle. The most prominent is its growth habit itself – perching on trees allows it to access light in the upper canopy and avoid competition on the forest floor. It forms dense rosettes of tough, strap-like leaves. The bases of these leaves are tightly overlapping and expand outwards, forming a natural cup or reservoir that collects rainwater, falling leaf litter, and other organic debris. This “tank” acts as its primary source of water and nutrients, essentially creating its own miniature ecosystem in the canopy. The roots are primarily anchoring roots, clinging firmly to the bark of the host tree, rather than nutrient-absorbing roots in soil. This unique water and nutrient collection system, coupled with its ability to withstand periods of drying between rain events, makes it well-suited to its elevated niche.

Propagation Methods

Propagation of Collospermum spicatum is typically achieved through seed or division.

• Seed: While possible, growing from seed is a slower process and requires specific conditions, often involving sowing on an appropriate medium like sphagnum moss and providing high humidity.
• Division: The most practical method for home growers is division. Mature plants often form clumps or offsets (plantlets) around the base. These can be carefully separated, ensuring each division has some roots attached. The divisions should then be potted in an appropriate epiphytic mix or mounted, and kept humid until established.

Toxicology

Information specifically on the toxicology of Collospermum spicatum is limited, but plants in the Asteliaceae family are generally not listed as containing significant toxins. Based on available information and common knowledge of related epiphytes, Collospermum spicatum is widely considered to be non-toxic or to have very low toxicity to humans and common household pets like cats and dogs. Ingestion is unlikely to cause more than mild, transient digestive upset in sensitive individuals or animals. There are no reports of severe poisoning or dermatological irritation associated with this plant. As with any plant, it’s always prudent to prevent pets or children from ingesting large quantities.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs (especially in leaf axils)
• Scale insects (can attach to leaves)
• Spider mites (less common if humidity is high)

Diseases:

• Root rot (if the base is kept waterlogged without drainage in an inappropriate medium)
• Fungal spots (can occur in overly damp, poorly ventilated conditions)

Other:

• Leaf yellowing: Often indicates overwatering, poor drainage, or sometimes nutrient deficiency (though this is less common in epiphytes getting moisture from rain/misting).
• Browning leaf tips/edges: Usually a sign of low humidity or fluoride/salt build-up in water (if using tap water).
• Stunted growth: Can be due to insufficient light, lack of humidity, or lack of occasional light feeding during the growing season.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Collospermum spicatum is not considered rare within its native range in New Zealand where it is a common forest epiphyte. However, outside of New Zealand, it is relatively uncommon in cultivation, especially compared to more popular houseplants. Its rarity on the international horticultural market is less about inherent biological rarity (like endangered status) and more about its niche appeal, specific care requirements (high humidity, epiphytic medium), and limited commercial propagation for export. It’s primarily found in specialist nurseries or botanical gardens outside of its native country.

Value:

The market value of Collospermum spicatum is generally modest. Factors affecting value include:

• Size and Maturity: Larger, more established plants or those with multiple divisions will command a higher price than small seedlings or fresh divisions.
• Origin: Plants sourced from reputable nurseries ensuring proper identification and health.
• Availability: Where it is uncommon (outside New Zealand), basic supply and demand can slightly inflate the price in specialist markets.
• Condition: Healthy, pest-free specimens are more valuable.

Unlike many collectible houseplants, Collospermum spicatum is not typically subject to factors like variegation (it rarely exhibits it) or provenance related to specific breeders or cultivators, as its value is primarily tied to its status as a native species rather than a horticultural cultivar.