Description

Podocarpus totara, commonly known as Totara, is one of New Zealand's mightiest forest trees. This majestic conifer is a classic Kiwi native that can grow up to 30 meters tall. Totara is found in lowland forests from sea level to 500 meters, and is known for its thick, stringy bark and sharply pointed, very dark green leaves.

One of the key attributes of Totara is its remarkable adaptability. This hardy tree can thrive in a wide range of sites, including very exposed and partially shaded areas. It is also tolerant of mild drought, frost, cool climates, and coastal environments. Totara's versatility makes it an excellent choice for a variety of landscape applications, from specimen planting to block plantings in larger gardens.

Totara's timber is highly prized for its durability, making it a great choice for construction and other uses. Beyond its practical applications, Totara is also an attractive ornamental tree. Its broad, spreading habit and distinctive foliage create a striking visual presence, whether used as a focal point or integrated into a mixed native planting.

The Totara tree is either male or female, with the female trees bearing bright red, berry-like fruit in autumn that attract birds. The nectar produced by the tree during the flowering period in October to December also draws in pollinators. While Totara can be frost tender when young, it quickly establishes and becomes a resilient, long-lived addition to the landscape.