Melicytus ramiflorus J.R. and G. Forst. Violaceae

Mahoe

Derivation: Meli = honey, and cytus = a cavity, a reference to the honey cavity below the stamens. Rami=branch, and florus = flower, a reference to the flowers of mahoe emerging directly from the branches.

It is perhaps ironic that mahoe finds its place in the Violet Family, given the strong smell of cat urine given off by its flowers.

Here is a picture of a piece of branch in full flower:

11 Oct 2005 Woodhill Forest Reserve, Woodhill

Here is the ripening berry

5 February 2006 Woodhill Forest Reserve, Woodhill

11 October 2005 Woodhill Forest Reserve, Woodhill

New Zealand Flora Reference

Family Violaceae

Genus Melicytus

Species Melicytus ramiflorus