Myoporum

Myoporum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Scrophulariaceae, although formerly placed in the Myoporaceae. The genus is native to Australasia, the Pacific Islands including Hawaii, East Asia, and the Indian Ocean islands of Mauritius and Madagascar.

Myoporum species are typically shrubs or small trees. They are characterised by simple, alternate leaves, and small, usually white or pink flowers. The fruit is a drupe, often fleshy and containing one or more seeds.

Several species of Myoporum are cultivated as ornamentals, particularly for their drought tolerance and ability to grow in poor soils. Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) is a common species in New Zealand and is often used for hedging. Other species, such as Myoporum parvifolium (creeping boobialla), are used as groundcovers.

Some Myoporum species, notably Myoporum laetum, can become invasive in certain environments, displacing native vegetation. Caution should be exercised when planting these species outside of their native range. The toxicity of Myoporum species varies, with some containing toxins that can be harmful to livestock if ingested in large quantities.