<i>Dacrycarpus dacrydioides</i>(Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) hero image

Kahikatea

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides

Not specified

This native plant, known as Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (scientific name: Dacrycarpus dacrydioides ), is a remarkable species endemic to New Zealand. It is characterized by its unique features, ecological role, and cultural significance. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on its care, propagation, and importance within the New Zealand ecosystem. Understanding this plant contributes to the appreciation of our rich biodiversity and heritage, and supports conservation efforts for Browse All .

<i>Dacrycarpus dacrydioides</i>(Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) showing <i>Dacrycarpus dacrydioides</i>growth habit
Image credit: Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) - photo by Wikipedia contributors, via Wikipedia

Plant Description

Identification and Physical Characteristics

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides , commonly known as Kahikatea or White Pine, is a coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand and its tallest indigenous plant, capable of reaching heights of 50 to 65 meters and living for up to 600 years Discover more about native grasses. It typically has a stout trunk, 1 to 2 meters in diameter, often fluted and buttressed at the base, with grey to dark grey bark that sheds in thick, sinuous flakes. The foliage varies with age: juvenile leaves are narrow-linear, 3-7 mm long, and can be red, wine-red, dark green, or green, while adult leaves are smaller, 1-2 mm long, scale-like, and typically brown-green or glaucous. As a conifer, it produces cones rather than flowers. Female trees bear highly modified fruit with a yellow-orange, fleshy receptacle that is 2.5-6.5 mm long, and a purple-black seed. These fleshy receptacles encourage birds like kererū and tūī to eat and disperse the seeds. It is typically found in lowland forests, historically dominating frequently flooded or poorly drained alluvial soils.

Quick Facts

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides quick facts
Scientific Name Dacrycarpus dacrydioides
Height 40-60 m
Spread 8-15 m
Water Needs High
Light Full sun to part shade
Frost Tolerance Good
Salt Tolerance Poor
Growth Rate Fast when young, moderate when mature
Lifespan Very long (600+ years)

Climate Best Suited to

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides is well adapted to various New Zealand regions.

Regional Suitability

City suitability for Dacrycarpus dacrydioides
City Climate Suitability
Auckland High
Wellington High
Christchurch Medium

Plant Habitat

Natural Occurrence and Ecology

Kahikatea ( Dacrycarpus dacrydioides ), New Zealand's tallest indigenous tree, is a specialist of wet and damp environments, primarily found in lowland forests across the North, South, and Stewart Islands. This majestic conifer thrives in moist to wet, fertile, and often poorly drained alluvial soils, particularly on floodplains and low river terraces. Historically, it was the dominant tree of a distinct swamp forest type, which is now largely diminished, especially in the North Island. Kahikatea forests are characterized by their towering stature and the unique ecological conditions they create, providing habitat for a diverse range of native flora and fauna. While it prefers sheltered, moist woodland conditions, its ability to tolerate periodically flooded or waterlogged soils is a key adaptation to its preferred wetland habitats. The best remaining examples of extensive kahikatea forests can be found in the South Westland region of the South Island, offering a glimpse into New Zealand's ancient forest ecosystems.

Growing Requirements

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

  • Well-drained
  • Loamy

Light Requirements

Grows best in partial to full sun.

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade

Water Requirements

Requires regular watering during dry periods.

  • Regular
  • Drought tolerant once established

Planting and Establishing

Establishment Guidance

Plant Dacrycarpus dacrydioides in a hole twice the width of the root ball.

Proper establishment is key to long-term success. Ensure the planting hole is twice as wide as the root ball and backfill with a mix of native soil and organic compost. Initial watering should be thorough, followed by regular monitoring during the first two growing seasons to ensure the plant becomes well-anchored and resilient to local climate fluctuations.

Ecological Role

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Impact

Provides habitat and food for native fauna.

This species plays a vital role in its local ecosystem, providing essential habitat and food sources for native biodiversity. Its presence supports complex ecological interactions, contributing to the overall health and stability of the environment. By planting this native, you help maintain the intricate web of life that defines New Zealand's unique natural heritage.

Uses & Significance

Garden Uses

Ideal for rock gardens and native borders.

  • Rock gardens
  • Ground cover

Ecological Value

Supports local pollinators.

  • Birds
  • Insects

The versatility of this plant makes it a valuable addition to many New Zealand gardens. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it offers practical benefits such as soil stabilization and shelter for smaller plants. Its historical and modern uses highlight its enduring importance in both traditional practices and contemporary landscape design, making it a thoughtful choice for any restoration or gardening project.

Landscaping Uses

Adds texture and form to modern landscapes.

In a landscape setting, this plant provides excellent structure and year-round interest. Its unique form and foliage can be used to create focal points or as a cohesive element in a larger native planting scheme. It pairs well with other New Zealand natives, allowing for the creation of diverse and resilient garden environments that reflect the natural beauty of Aotearoa.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Spring

Mulch and apply balanced fertilizer.

  • Fertilize
  • Mulch

Summer

Water deeply during dry spells.

  • Water
  • Check for pests

Autumn

Tidy up any dead foliage.

  • Prune lightly
  • Plant new specimens

Winter

Protect from heavy frosts if necessary.

  • Frost protection

When to Prune and How Much

Minimal pruning required to maintain shape.

  • Remove dead branches

Always use clean, sharp tools.

Regular maintenance through careful pruning ensures the plant remains healthy and maintains its desired shape. Focus on removing dead or diseased wood to promote better air circulation and prevent the spread of pathogens. Proper pruning techniques help the plant direct its energy toward new growth, resulting in a more robust and aesthetically pleasing specimen in your garden.

How to Grow Kahikatea

Cultivating Dacrycarpus dacrydioides ( Dacrycarpus dacrydioides ) is a rewarding endeavor for any gardener interested in New Zealand's unique flora. This species can be propagated through several methods, each requiring specific conditions to ensure healthy growth and establishment. Successful propagation depends on mimicking the plant's natural environment and providing consistent care during the early stages of development.

From Seed

Propagation from seed is often the most effective way to produce a large number of Dacrycarpus dacrydioides plants. Seeds should be collected when they are fully mature. Freshly collected seeds generally have higher germination rates than those that have been stored for long periods.

Sow fresh seeds in a seed-raising mix.

  1. Collect seeds
  2. Sow in trays

Keep moist until germination.

From Cuttings

For those wishing to replicate specific characteristics of a parent plant, vegetative propagation via cuttings is the preferred method. This technique ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the source. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the appropriate season usually yield the best results for this species.

Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.

  1. Take cuttings
  2. Use rooting hormone

Additional Methods

Depending on the growth habit of Dacrycarpus dacrydioides , other methods such as division or layering might also be viable options. Division is particularly suitable for plants that form dense clumps or have spreading root systems, while layering can be used for species with trailing or flexible stems.

Division can be done in early spring.

  1. Divide clumps
  2. Replant immediately

Pests & Diseases

Generally resistant to major pests.

While generally resilient, maintaining optimal growing conditions is the best defense against pests and diseases. Regular monitoring allows for early detection of any issues, which can often be managed through cultural practices or organic interventions. Ensuring good air circulation and appropriate watering will significantly reduce the plant's susceptibility to common environmental stresses and pathogens.

Cultural Significance

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides , commonly known as kahikatea or white pine, holds significant cultural importance, particularly within Māori culture in New Zealand. It is New Zealand's tallest tree, capable of reaching heights of 60 meters and living for up to 600 years.Resource for Māori:Kahikatea was an essential resource for Māori. Its timber was used for building waka (canoes) and making tools. The tree's bark was also utilized for weaving.Food Source:The tree's berries, known as koroī, were an important seasonal food source for Māori. Collecting these berries often required climbing considerable heights.Dye:Kahikatea was also a source of dye.Spiritual Significance:The tree held spiritual significance for Māori, who believed it connected the earthly and spiritual realms. In Māori mythology, kahikatea is considered a child of Tāne, the god of forests and birds, and Hine-wao-riki.Historical Abundance and Decimation:In pre-European times, dense kahikatea forests covered much of New Zealand's floodplains and wetlands. However, its use for timber, particularly for butter boxes in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and the conversion of its fertile, damp habitats for dairy farming, led to the decimation of these forests. Today, conservation efforts are underway to restore this tree to its former landscapes.

  • Traditional medicine
  • Crafts

Bonus Tip

Excellent for low-maintenance gardens.

For an extra boost, consider applying a thin layer of high-quality organic mulch around the base of the plant. This helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually improves soil structure as it breaks down. This simple step can make a significant difference in the plant's overall vigor and resilience, especially during periods of extreme weather.

Plant Conservation

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Dacrycarpus dacrydioides , commonly known as kahikatea or white pine, is "Least Concern" according to the IUCN Red List (version 3.1). In New Zealand, it is classified as "Not Threatened".Although the species itself is not currently threatened, its forest type has been significantly reduced due to widespread logging, particularly in the North Island, where very few intact examples of kahikatea-dominated forest remain. The decline largely predates the current assessment period, and commercial exploitation has mostly ceased.