Corynocarpaceae

Corynocarpaceae is a small family of flowering plants in the order Oxalidales. It is a monogeneric family containing the genus Corynocarpus, with Corynocarpus laevigatus (the karaka) as the best known species. The family is native to New Zealand, where its members occur in native forests and coastal habitats.

Corynocarpus is an evergreen tree or shrub characterized by simple, leathery leaves arranged alternately. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, produced in panicles or clusters. The fruit is a fleshy, drupe-like berry that becomes orange at maturity and typically contains a single seed.

Ecology and habitat: Corynocarpus laevigatus grows in lowland to montane forests and on sheltered slopes, often along streams or in coastal locales. The plant relies on insects for pollination, and its fruit is dispersed by birds and other animals, as well as gravity. The species is adapted to temperate environments and has cultural significance in its native range.

Toxicity and use: The karaka fruit contains toxins, and the seed and raw fruit can be poisonous. Traditional processing by Māori communities removes or neutralizes many toxins, allowing the edible pulp to be consumed in certain preparations. Today, karaka is valued mainly for ornamental uses and occasional cultural or historical reference, rather than commercial fruit production.

Taxonomy and status: In modern systems, Corynocarpaceae is recognized as a distinct family within Oxalidales. Its small size and limited diversity reflect its status as one of the more narrowly represented lineages in flowering plants.