If you are planning on planting a Myoporum laetum tree, be sure to check with your local government first. Myoporum laetum is known by many common names, including Ngaio, Ngaio tree, and myoporum. The myoporum tree is native to eastern Australia. It is also used in herbal medicine, particularly as a sedative that works on the nervous system. The toxic compound in Ngaio trees is an essential oil called Ngaione, which is a furanoid-sesquiterpene ketone that is known to cause vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dehydration, and seizures. If you are worried your pet has consumed Ngaio trees, please call your vet immediately.
What is Ngaio tree?
This native tree is a type of scotch pine that is endemic to New Zealand and Australia. Growing to 50-120 ft (15-36 m) tall and 40-80 ft (12-24 m) wide, it can be found growing in coastal regions. Known as the NZ Christmas Tree, the tree blooms in autumn, and its bright red berries can be found in December and early January.