Podocarpus totara, commonly known as totara, is an evergreen coniferous tree native to New Zealand. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 20-25 meters in height and has a broad, conical shape. It has a significant cultural and ecological value in New Zealand and is widely used in landscaping. Totara is found in forests and woodlands throughout New Zealand, from the far north to the deep south. The tree is ideal for use in large gardens or on farms as hedging or a windbreak.
Totara has been an important tree for Maori people in New Zealand for centuries. The wood was used for building canoes, houses, and other essential items. The tree has a long lifespan, and some specimens can live for over a thousand years. The leaves are small and scale-like, and the tree produces cones that are about 2-4 centimeters long. The bark is dark brown and can be quite rough in texture.
 
Care
Totara is a hardy tree that can grow in a range of soil types and climates. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The tree requires regular watering during the first few years of growth, but once established, it is relatively drought tolerant. Fertilizer is not necessary for totara, but a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired. Pruning is not necessary, but if you want to shape the tree, it can be done in the winter when the tree is dormant.
 
Birds and Bees
The fruiting season from March to May is a great attraction to birds, and in spring the nectar will attract bees. The tree has a dense canopy that also provides shelter and nesting sites for birds.
 
Watering
Totara requires regular watering during the first few years of growth, but once established, it is relatively drought tolerant. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging.
 
Feeding
Fertilizer is not necessary for totara, but a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
 
Overwintering
Totara is a hardy tree and can tolerate cold temperatures. It does not require any special overwintering care.
 
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for totara, but if you want to shape the tree, it can be done in the winter when the tree is dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the tree as desired.
 
Propagation
Totara can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seed propagation is relatively easy, but it can take several years for the tree to reach maturity. Cuttings can be taken in the winter and rooted in a well-drained potting mix.
 
Diseases and Pests
Totara is not prone to any significant diseases or pests.
 
Substitutes
If you are looking for a similar tree to totara, you might consider New Zealand kauri (Agathis australis), Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydiodes), or Matai (Prumnopitys taxifolia). All of these trees are also evergreen conifers and are native to New Zealand.