Exocarpus bidwillii
Exocarpus bidwilliifam. Fabaceae
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Pl. CC2B — Exocarpus bidwillii
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IOverview
Overview
Exocarpus bidwillii, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a small tree native to the South Island of New Zealand. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy) soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to various growing conditions. Known for its edible fruit, Exocarpus bidwillii is valued for its culinary use. One distinctive feature sets this plant apart: its ability to grow up to 1 meter in height, contributing to its ornamental appeal while also serving as a practical addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Exocarpus bidwillii?
Exocarpus bidwillii, known as Skip in English and belonging to the Fabaceae family, is a small tree native to the South Island of New Zealand. This plant thrives in moist, light (sandy) soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to various growing conditions.
Compare with:African Oil Bean Oil Bean Tree→African Walnut→Allanblackia parviflora→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Exocarpus bidwillii thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, light to medium soil. It grows to a height of about 1 meter and is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate by seed or cuttings. The fruit is edible. Ensure the plant receives adequate moisture, especially during dry periods, for best growth and fruit production.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Exocarpus bidwillii for the first time
8steps
Skip is a straightforward plant for beginners, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A Skip seedling or young plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden spot with partial sun.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in spring when the last frost has passed, ensuring warm days ahead.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy soil that is well-draining. Ensure containers have drainage holes if planting indoors.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Skip from a pot to the garden once it has grown its first set of true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun and keep the soil consistently moist. Prune lightly to encourage bushy growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and promote new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and exposing the plant to full sun are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Exocarpus bidwillii is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip the specific preparation methods as they are not provided.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:New Zealand South
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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