Totara
Podocarpus totara
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Pl. EC10 — Podocarpus totara
Podocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totaraPodocarpus totara
IOverview
Overview
Totara, scientifically known as Podocarpus totara, is a large coniferous tree native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This evergreen species thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Totara can grow up to 30 meters tall, providing valuable timber and habitat for wildlife. It is known for its edible fruit, which are enjoyed by both humans and animals. The tree's distinctive feature lies in its light green foliage and cone-like fruits, making it a notable ornamental addition to gardens while also serving as an important source of food in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Totara?
Totara, scientifically known as Podocarpus totara, is a large coniferous tree native to the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This evergreen species thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun, making it adaptable to various soil types including sandy, medium, and clay soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Totara thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant can reach a height of 30 meters and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Totara for the first time
8steps
Totara is a hardy tree that can be grown as an ornamental plant, making it perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A young totara sapling and well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light, medium, or heavy with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for conifers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young totara saplings into prepared soil, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun or full sun, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune totara in late winter to remove dead branches and shape the tree.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, and not providing enough space for growth are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Totara tree's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. SKIP
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North, New Zealand South
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · ec10db99-5dbd-4cd2-875c-32e8571dcb41
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