A Contribution to the Life-History of Ripogonum Scandens J.R. Et G. Forster

Abstract

Ripogonum scandens Forster is a lofty perennial climber of the subtropical rain-forest, mixed rain-forest, and swamp-forest of New Zealand (see Cockayne, 1928). It occurs in these associations throughout both main islands, in Stewart Island, and in the Chatham Islands (Cheeseman, 1925). The popular name "supplejack" picturesquely suggests its rope-like, twining stems which often form impenetrable thickets. In areas where farms are still not ring-fenced, supplejack is a danger to stock that enters the forest. I have seen a horse held for hours by the twining stems, and trembling with exhaustion and fear; had it not been found and released it would certainly have fallen down from weariness and perished from starvation.