tānekaha
about.
Phyllocladus trichomanoides | tānekaha, celery pine
A handsome, upright, evergreen native tree with a symmetrical form, making it an ideal ornamental specimen for suburban gardens where height is desired without excessive width. It features interesting celery-like green foliage and mottled to light grey smooth bark. While best suited to semi-shade in soil that doesn't dry out rapidly, it can also thrive in poorer soils and prefers shelter.
typical habitat.
lowland forest
drainage.
well drained
sun.
partial shade
full sun
mature specifications.
height | 25m
width | 6m / 1m (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | September–December
fruiting | January–April
did you know?
Māori utilised tānekaha extensively. Its strength and flexibility made it ideal for crafting the two-meter-long, double-pointed spear known as koi koi. Beyond weaponry, tanekaha was employed in canoe and house construction, and its bark served as a source of red dye. Medicinally, Māori used it as a liver tonic and to treat dysentery and vomiting.