The present day range of Ascinara is much less than what it used to be, as a result of both climatic changes and increased competition. In New Zealand in particular, the range of A. lucida has decreased. This is not a result of a pollen limitation, as Ascarina produces enough pollen to spread far beyond its habitable range, and even cross water to islands near New Zealand, but rather its vulnerability to both drought and frost.
The present-day distribution of Ascinara is significantly narrower than in the past, owing to both climatic shifts and increased competition. In particular, the range of A. lucida has contracted in New Zealand. This reduction is not due to pollen limitations; Ascarina produces enough pollen to disperse widely beyond its suitable area and even reach nearby islands across water. Instead, it is because the species is susceptible to both drought and frost.