Ngā Rauropi Whakaoranga

kakaha (Williams 1971)

bush lily

The commonest astelia. Reddish orange berries.

Astelia leaves used for wrapping eels in for cooking (Best 1907)

Red juice of berries sought by girls and women for cosmetic use (colouring cheeks) (Best 1907).

Seeds good source of essential fatty acids, generally regarded as protective against cardiovascular disease. (Cambie, Ferguson 2003)