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Kawakawa – an insect deterrent

Kawakawa leaves and unripe berry clusters.

Kawakawa has insecticidal properties. Uses include the protection of crops by burying leaves, burning leaves to produce toxic fumes and applying leaf extracts to foliage. Kawakawa extracts are used in commercial insect repellent balms and sprays.

Kawakawa does not repel all insects – as can be observed by holes in some of the plants' leaves.

Glossary

Rights: Judi Lapsley Miller, CC BY 4.0
Published: 31 October 2024Size: 5.23 MB
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