A densely leafy, large, evergreen shrub with leathery, apple-green leaves up to 7.5cm (3 inches) long and nearly as much across. Tiny, inconspicuous, yellow-green unisexual flowers are borne in late spring. Succeeds in all type of fertile soil and is tree-like in mild localities. An excellent hedge plant for maritime exposure, it is liable to frost damage in cold inland areas. Thrives in sun or partial shade. Height 10m (36ft, 8in), spread 4m (14ft, 8in). Native to New Zealand.