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NZ Native Plants for Banks and Steep Hills

What to Grow, Where, and Why

Banks and steep hillsides present unique challenges such as soil erosion, poor soil depth, and exposure to wind and sun. Choosing native plants with strong, fibrous root systems and tolerance to harsh conditions can stabilise the soil, reduce erosion, and enhance biodiversity.

What Makes Banks and Steep Hills Unique

  • Slope & Exposure: Steep angles with high erosion risk, often exposed to wind and sun.

  • Soil: Shallow, rocky, or free-draining soils prone to drying out or washing away.

  • Water: Variable moisture; some banks may be dry, others may experience runoff or seepage.

  • Stabilisation Needs: Plants must hold soil firmly and thrive in challenging conditions.

What to Plant by Site Type

Site Type

Best Plant Choices

Why These Work

Dry banks & steep hills

Kunzea ericoides (Kānuka), Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka), Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu)

Tough shrubs with deep, fibrous roots to stabilise soil and tolerate dry, exposed conditions.

Moist banks & gullies

Carex secta, Phormium tenax (Harakeke), Coprosma robusta

Grasses and shrubs that stabilise moist soils and prevent runoff erosion.

Rocky slopes & cliffs

Pachystegia insignis, Olearia odorata, Dracophyllum traversii

Hardy shrubs and cushion plants adapted to shallow, rocky soils with good root anchorage.

 

Signature Plants for Banks and Steep Hills

  • Kunzea ericoides (Kānuka) – Fast-growing, drought-resistant shrub with strong roots.

  • Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka) – Hardy pioneer shrub that binds soil and supports wildlife.

  • Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu) – Light, airy shrub helping soil retention on dry slopes.

  • Carex secta – Tall sedge perfect for moisture-retentive areas and stream banks.

  • Phormium tenax (Harakeke) – Strong-rooted flax that traps soil and slows water runoff.

Planting Tips for Banks and Steep Hills

Tip

Advice

Planting time

Early autumn or spring to allow roots to establish before dry or wet extremes.

Soil preparation

Minimise disturbance; add organic matter if soil is poor or compacted.

Erosion control

Use biodegradable matting or mulch to hold soil until plants establish.

Watering

Water young plants regularly on dry slopes to improve survival.

Spacing

Plant densely enough to form a protective ground cover and shelter seedlings.

 

Why Choose Natives for Banks and Steep Hills?

  • Provide natural, strong root systems to prevent erosion

  • Adapted to local climate and soil conditions for better survival

  • Support native fauna by providing habitat and food sources

  • Lower maintenance once established compared to exotic species

  • Help restore natural landscapes and improve ecosystem health