tōtara
about.
Podocarpus totara | tōtara
A majestic New Zealand native, tōtara is an evergreen tree prized for its durable timber and cultural importance. With needle-like, dark green leaves and a dense, upright form, it makes a striking presence. Its reddish-brown bark peels attractively in strips. Versatile in the landscape, tōtara serves well as a specimen tree, in large gardens, or as hedging and windbreaks.
Adaptable and hardy, Totara prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates drought and cold. Spacing of 4-6 meters allows for optimal growth and air circulation. Reaching 20-30 meters tall with a 6-8 meter spread, its dense foliage provides excellent shelter and privacy.
typical habitat.
lowland forest
montane forest
subalpine forest
drainage.
dry
moist
well drained
free draining
sun.
full sun
partial shade
mature specifications.
height | 30m
width | 8m / 3m (trunk)
pollinators calendar.
flowering | (August)–October–(December)
fruiting | April and May
did you know?
Māori used tōtara when crafting waka, building and carving, and it is still used as a preferred carving timber.