What is the difference between Manuka and Kanuka?

Kanuka (Kunzea ericoides), although superficially similar to Manuka, is a rather different plant. The capsules of Manuka remain on the lower branches of the trees for several years while Kanuka sheds its capsules within one year. Manuka capsules are approximately 8–10mm in diameter while Kanuka are 4–5mm in diameter.

How do you identify Kanuka?

Take some bark and rub in your fingers, is the tissue is soft and smells strongly then you can be sure its Kanuka. If the tissue is harsh to the feel and without scent or only mildly aromatic the tree will probably be Manuka.

How long does it take for a Manuka tree to mature?

Manuka grows best on marginal hill land, and has the benefit of acting as erosion control while producing a crop. It was also a long term investment, with the return not showing up until 10 years after planting. Manuka begins flowering in years four and five, but it takes six years to reach full production.

Is Manuka essential oil the same as manuka honey?

Although they come from the same New Zealand native shrub (Leptospermum scoparium) and are both highly valued for their health benefits, Manuka honey and Manuka essential oil are two very different substances, with completely different chemical compositions and well-being supporting properties.

What’s the difference between a manuka and a kanuka?

The most commonly understood difference between mānuka and kānuka is the height to which they grow. Mānuka can grow up to 8-10m tall at maturity whereas kānuka can reach heights of 20-30m. Kānuka is a faster growing tree, and can survive in taller forests thanks to its added height.

What kind of bark does a kanuka tree have?

The trunk and branches are usually clad in long, leathery strips of bark, rather than the short, papery, rather flaky brown bark typical of the tree forms of mānuka/ kahikātoa. Kānuka leaves lack the sharp tip of mānuka/ kahikātoa. The flowers of this species are usually solitary but occur in clusters.

How tall does a manuka kahikatoa tree grow?

In its typical form it can grow into a tree up to 30 m tall. The trunk and branches are usually clad in long, leathery strips of bark, rather than the short, papery, rather flaky brown bark typical of the tree forms of mānuka/ kahikātoa. Kānuka leaves lack the sharp tip of mānuka/ kahikātoa.

How can you tell if a tree is Manuka or Kunzea?

If the tissue is soft and the smell strongly aromatic then the specimen can be known as kanuka or Kunzea ericoides. If the tissue is harsh to the feel and is without scent or only mildly aromatic the specimen is manuka and can be left in leptospermum.