Dodonaea Viscosa

Dodonaea viscosa, better known as Ake Ake, is a tough-as-nails evergreen NZ native that’s widely used for hedging, screening and shelter. It naturally grows upright and dense, with narrow green leaves that stay looking tidy through the seasons. It’s a brilliant pick for windy boundaries, coastal gardens, and exposed South Island sites where you need plants that establish quickly and don’t sulk.

As a hedge, Dodonaea viscosa (Ake Ake) clips well and thickens up nicely with regular trimming, making it a solid option for privacy and shelter without the high-maintenance drama. Left untrimmed, it can grow into a large shrub/small tree.