Story: Conifer–broadleaf forests

Supplejack and kiekie (3rd of 3)

Supplejack and kiekie

Supplejack stems and kiekie leaves form an impenetrable tangle in a Westland forest. Supplejack is a twining vine which can grow to 20 metres and is found throughout lowland forests. Kiekie is a climbing vine that grows in swampy forests. It is the southernmost representative of the tropical screwpine family, Pandanaceae. Kiekie’s stems carry dense tufts of metre-long leaves with finely serrated edges. Their slender roots help attach the plant to tree trunks and steep banks.

Using this item

Department of Conservation
Reference: 10048143
Photograph by Kevin Smith

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How to cite this page:

John Dawson, 'Conifer–broadleaf forests - Overview and features', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/11655/supplejack-and-kiekie (accessed 18 April 2024)

Story by John Dawson, published 24 Sep 2007