New Zealand Native Plants & Fruits, Set of Three Botanical Lithographs, 1890

New Zealand Native Plants & Fruits, Set of Three Botanical Lithographs, 1890

This striking set of three hand-colored lithographs from the rare 1890 publication New Zealand Berries offers a richly detailed look at native plants bearing fruit and flowers important to the natural and cultural heritage of Aotearoa. Each plate showcases an individual species native to New Zealand, illustrated with scientific clarity and aesthetic grace. The three featured plants are Dysoxylum spectabile (Kohekohe), Ripogonum scandens (Supplejack), and Astelia grandis (Kowharawhara).

The first plate, Dysoxylum spectabile, displays clusters of creamy flowers and round, green fruit hanging from dark-stemmed foliage. Known in Māori as Kohekohe, this handsome forest tree is common in the North Island and has a distinctive soft-wooded trunk. The flowers bloom directly from the branches and are pollinated by native birds, a detail carefully captured in this lush composition. The Kohekohe is also one of the few native trees to flower in winter, giving it special ecological value.

The second print features the vivid red berries of Ripogonum scandens, or Supplejack, a fast-growing climbing vine that entwines itself through the forest canopy. The long, lance-like leaves and scarlet fruits are beautifully rendered in this illustration. Historically, the vine was used by Māori for lashing and basket weaving, and the fruit was occasionally eaten despite its slight bitterness.

The third image depicts Astelia grandis, or Kowharawhara, a plant with large, arched leaves and dense clusters of small, rounded yellow-orange berries. This species thrives in damp forest areas and has long been admired for its ornamental form. The striking coloration and dynamic leaf movement give this lithograph particular visual appeal, enhanced by the rich hand coloring.

These lithographs were illustrated by E. C. Harris and published by H. D. Jackson of Nelson, New Zealand, in 1890. Created as part of a visual and botanical record of the region’s flora, they are rendered using lithographic printing techniques and enhanced by hand with watercolor, combining scientific purpose with decorative beauty.

Condition: Good condition overall, but Light age toning with occasional scattered foxing. No tears or repairs. Crisp paper, strong impressions, and vibrant color. Minor handling wear to corners. Patina rich.

Framing tips: These prints work beautifully in individual frames or grouped as a triptych. For best results, use mid- to dark wood frames with warm white or moss-green mounts to complement the foliage and highlight the fruit tones.

Technique: Hand-colored lithograph

Maker: E. C. Harris, New Zealand, 1890