Neomyrtus pendunculata or rohutu is endemic to the North, South and Stewart Islands from near Kaitaia (Mangamuka) south but generally scarce in Northland and Auckland. It is found in coastal to montane forest and shrubland, and is often a conspicuous component of the understorey of lowland Podocarp riparian forest, but also a frequent component of grey scrub in some parts of the South Island. Unless flowering or fruiting Neomyrtus is often overlooked or mistaken for the superficially similar Lophomyrtus obcordata with which it often grows. The small roundish leaves (6-20mm x 4-15mm) are opposite, thick and leathery with thickened smooth margins. They have prominent oil glands on the underside. In January it develops white open flowers (6-7mm) on 15mm long stalks. The flowers have long stamens. The flowers are followed in February-June with broadly ovoid 6-8 mm long orange, red or yellow berries on long stalks. They contain 2-5 seeds. It is reported that a decoction was made from the bark and berries of the rōhutu tree used as a medicine in cases of difficult menstruation. The ripe berries contain anthocyanins, reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.