Podocarpus totara
Podocarpus totara
Podocarpus totara, commonly known as tōtara, is a species of conifer in the family Podocarpaceae, endemic to New Zealand. It is a large tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. Tōtara is known for its durable timber and cultural significance to the Māori people.
Description[edit | edit source]
Podocarpus totara is a slow-growing, evergreen tree. The leaves are needle-like, 2 to 4 cm long, and arranged spirally on the branches. The bark is thick, stringy, and reddish-brown, peeling off in long strips. The tree produces small, fleshy, red or purple fruit, which are an important food source for native birds.
Habitat[edit | edit source]
Tōtara is found throughout New Zealand, from lowland forests to montane regions. It prefers well-drained soils and can often be found on river terraces and in mixed podocarp/broadleaf forests. The tree is tolerant of a range of climatic conditions but is most commonly found in areas with high rainfall.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Tōtara holds significant cultural value for the Māori people. The wood is highly prized for its durability and workability, making it ideal for carving waka (canoes), wharenui (meeting houses), and other important structures. The bark and leaves have also been used in traditional medicine.
Conservation[edit | edit source]
While tōtara is not currently considered threatened, its habitat has been reduced due to land clearance for agriculture and urban development. Conservation efforts focus on protecting existing forests and promoting the planting of tōtara in reforestation projects.
Notable Specimens[edit | edit source]
One of the most famous tōtara trees is the Pouakani Tree, located near Mangakino in the North Island. It is the largest known living tōtara, with a height of over 35 meters and a trunk circumference of more than 4 meters. This tree is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of New Zealand's natural heritage.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
