Divarication

Divarication is a growth habit that is found in a lot

of New Zealand trees and shrubs. It's a branching

pattern about which there are different theories.

One is that it provides protection for the plant

from harsh climate conditions, and another,

that it evolved to give the plant protection from

the grazing of Moa. On the link above there is

a different theory, one which suggests that it

is an evironment which creates an ideal

habitat for lizards which in turn by eating the small

fruit borne on the inner branches of the plant, facilitates

the dispersal of the seeds.

However the reason that I photographed these shrubs at

Otorohanga is not botanical at all but

that I've been attracted by

their shapes. I still haven't managed to make

a photo that passes, but I will try again.

The plants are in a public planting on the side of

road. They are currently about 3 metres high.