But most of the leaves are sheltered between the stiff interlacing stems as an adaptation to the harsh environment where the plant grows.

[3] Melicytus alpinus can be found in both the North and South Island of New Zealand in coastal and/or dry alpine areas.

[1] Melicytus alpinus is very well adapted to extreme weather conditions such as drought, which is why it can be found in areas such as the heavily modified high country of the South Island.

[1] The flowers are then insect pollinated and produce the small white berries eaten by many native New Zealand lizards, thus starting the cycle again.

[2] The porcupine shrub is very resistant to extreme weather conditions and drought; therefore, it lives in areas of dry, rocky soils with very little water availability.