Podocarpus Totara | Totara
Description
Common Name: Podocarpus totara is commonly known as the totara.
Common Uses: The totara holds significant cultural and historical importance to the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand. Its durable wood was traditionally used by Māori for constructing waka (canoes), buildings, and carving intricate artworks. Today, the totara remains valued for its timber, which is utilized in furniture making, construction, and decorative woodwork.
Interesting Fact: Totara trees have a long lifespan and can live for several centuries, with some specimens estimated to be over 1,000 years old. They are revered by Māori for their spiritual significance and are often regarded as symbols of strength, resilience, and connection to the land.
Growth Characteristics:
Width and Height in 10 Years:
In its initial decade of growth, Podocarpus totara typically demonstrates a moderate growth rate. The width of the tree can vary but generally falls between 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet), while its height may reach approximately 2 to 5 meters (6.5 to 16 feet) during this period.
Maximum Height: Mature totara trees can attain impressive heights, often reaching 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet) tall, with some exceptional specimens exceeding these measurements. They typically have a spread of 6 to 10 meters (20 to 33 feet).
Current Height:
4L Pots
Approx. 0.6m - 1m Tall
10L Pots
Approx. 1.8m - 2.5m Tall