Dacrycarpus Dacrydioides - $13.99 each
Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides)
Common Names: Kahikatea, White Pine (New Zealand)
Family: Podocarpaceae
Origin: Endemic to New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen coniferous tree
Overview:
Dacrycarpus dacrydioides, commonly known as Kahikatea, is New Zealand’s tallest native tree, renowned for its straight trunk, fine foliage, and cultural significance. Once dominant in lowland swamp forests, this majestic evergreen conifer thrives in moist, fertile soils and develops a tall, elegant form with soft, feathery foliage. Kahikatea is ideal for ecological restoration, native reforestation, and large landscape plantings where long-term canopy development is desired.
Key Features:
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Foliage: Soft, linear, needle-like leaves; juvenile foliage is finer and more spreading, maturing to a more scale-like texture
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Flowers/Fruit: Produces small, inconspicuous cones and bright red fleshy arils that are attractive to native birds
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Form & Habit: Tall, columnar when young, developing into a wide-crowned tree with age
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Growth Rate: Moderate to fast in moist, fertile soils
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Cultural or Ecological Value: Deeply significant in Māori culture; important for biodiversity and wetland forest restoration
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 20 – 60 meters in natural conditions; 10 – 20 meters in cultivation |
| Spread | 4 – 8 meters |
| Form | Tall, upright, broadening with age |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water | Prefers moist to wet soils; tolerates seasonal flooding |
| Soil | Fertile, well-drained to poorly drained; ideal in loams and wetland soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy to light and moderate frosts once established |
Landscaping and Garden Uses:
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Native forest and wetland restoration projects
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Large gardens, parks, and public spaces
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Rain gardens and riparian plantings
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Specimen tree for long-term canopy development
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Habitat planting for birds and ecological diversity
Care and Maintenance:
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Pruning: Minimal pruning required; allow natural form to develop
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Watering: Regular watering during establishment, especially in dry conditions
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Feeding: Low nutrient requirements; compost or mulch may benefit young plants
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Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resilient
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Additional Tips: Best grown in open space with good light and moisture; tolerates seasonal wetness but not extended drought
Fun Fact or Botanical Insight:
Kahikatea once formed vast swamp forests across New Zealand's lowlands. Its lightweight timber, historically called "white pine," was widely used for butter boxes and packaging in the early 20th century. The red, fleshy fruit is a favourite food of native birds such as kererū and tūī.
Why Choose Dacrycarpus dacrydioides?
Dacrycarpus dacrydioides is an essential species for restoring New Zealand’s native wetland and lowland forest ecosystems. Its graceful form, ecological value, and cultural heritage make it a powerful statement tree for large spaces or conservation-focused plantings.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size 7cm square pots
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
