Kamahi
Weinmannia racemosafam. Cupressaceae
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Pl. 8A42 — Weinmannia racemosa
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IOverview
Overview
Kamahi, scientifically known as Weinmannia racemosa, is a tree native to New Zealand's North and South Islands, as well as regions in Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. This plant thrives in moist conditions with light or partial sun exposure, making it adaptable to various environments. It grows up to 25 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed by those familiar with its use. Kamahi's distinctive feature includes its ability to grow in a range of soil types, from light sandy to medium, and its hardiness across USDA zones 8-11.
Quick answers
What is Kamahi?
Kamahi, scientifically known as Weinmannia racemosa, is a tree native to New Zealand's North and South Islands, as well as regions in Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Ecuador.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Kamahi prefers full to partial sun and requires moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium in texture. It thrives in hardiness zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. This tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and produces edible fruit. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Regular watering and well-draining soil are essential for its health and growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Kamahi for the first time
8steps
Start with a Kamahi tree to experience growing this New Zealand native, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A Kamahi 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
Use a light, sandy soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into prepared soil, ensuring roots are not damaged.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight during this sensitive period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels. Provide partial shade if full sun is too harsh.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly in late winter to shape the tree and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough light, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Kamahi tree is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is often consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:DyeTanninLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
24 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
24 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 24 native
Americas14 regions
native (14)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaCubaDominican RepublicEcuadorGuatemalaHaitiHondurasJamaicaNicaraguaPeruPuerto RicoVenezuela
Broader regions
native:New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Leeward Is., Mexico Gulf, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Panamá, Trinidad-Tobago, Windward Is., Mexico Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
1 related
See also
1 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Cupressaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Cupressaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
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