Totara Pine

Podocarpus totara, also known as Totara Pine, is a large coniferous evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It grows throughout the North Island and northeastern South Island in lowland, montane and lower subalpine forest at elevations of up to 600 m. The Totara is commonly found in lowland areas where the soil is fertile and well-drained. The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height with a spread of 3 to 5 metres, with a tall, straight trunk with brown to purple papery bark and shape, needle-like, dull green leaves. It is a long-lived and slow-growing tree that can take some time to reach maturity.

When it comes to soil, Podocarpus totara prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers soils with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. It also tolerates clay, loam and sandy soils. The tree is drought-tolerant and can tolerate frost. It prefers partial to full shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist.

It is also vital to ensure that the tree is planted in an area with enough room to grow, as it can reach a height of 30 meters and a spread of 3 to 5 meters.

When planting, it is crucial to ensure that the soil is well-prepared, removing debris and lost rocks and amending the soil with organic matter if necessary. It is also essential to ensure that the tree is planted at the same depth as in the container and to water it well after planting.

Two variations of this product are available. Cutting stuck stock (more readily available) and seed-grown stock. The seed-grown stock is available less often due to long germination periods and intermittent seed availability. Waitlists are now open.