Pomaderris kumeraho (golden tainui)

Also known as Kūmarahou, gum‑digger’s soap, or golden tainui

A fast-growing, branching shrub or small tree endemic to scrubby gumlands and nutrient-poor clay soils of the upper North Island. It typically grows 1–4 m tall, with dark-green, oval, serrated and wrinkled leaves that are soft and velvety underneath. In September–October, it produces dense rounded corymbs of small bright-yellow to golden flowers, creating a brief but spectacular display and giving rise to the name golden tainui.

Usually short-lived at 4–7 years, it is a useful filler plant on poor soils while more permanent plantings establish. It prefers well-drained soil because it is prone to root rot and tolerates only light frosts. Māori traditionally used its flowering period as a seasonal indicator for planting kūmara. The leaves and flowers contain saponin and produce a washing lather when rubbed in water; the plant is also known for its medicinal properties.