How to Grow Rimu

iNaturalist

Rimu

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides

tree

Rimu is a large evergreen coniferous tree native to New Zealand, reaching heights of 60-80 feet in its native habitat. It is prized for its attractive reddish-brown bark, fine feathery foliage, and small red berry-like fruits. The tree is slow-growing but long-lived, making it an excellent specimen tree for temperate gardens.

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Example Rimu timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Rimu
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Rimu
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Rimu dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade; prefers 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily

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Water: Moderate watering; establish deep roots with regular watering in first 2-3 years, then drought-tolerant once established. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

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Spacing: 240 inches

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Days to maturity: Not applicable for ornamental/timber tree; reaches full size over 50+ years

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Planting depth: Plant at same depth as root ball; ensure top of root ball is level with ground

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy to sandy soil

pH: 5.5-7.0

Amendments:

Peat moss or compost to improve water retention Coarse sand for drainage if soil is heavy clay Aged bark mulch around the base

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 9-10; suitable for mild temperate climates with moderate moisture

9a 9b 10a 10b

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Growth Stages

Establishment

1-2 years

Young seedling or transplant developing initial root system and primary growth

Water regularly to keep soil moist; shelter from strong winds; stake if needed for support; apply mulch around base

Early Growth

3-5 years

Tree develops sturdy trunk and branching structure; foliage becomes denser

Continue regular watering; prune lower branches to create single leader; monitor for pest damage

Developing Maturity

10-20 years

Tree gains significant height and girth; foliage is thick and rich green; bark develops characteristic reddish-brown color

Reduce watering frequency as roots establish; prune only as needed to maintain shape; mulch during winter in cooler zones

Fruiting

Begins after 10-15 years, continues throughout mature life

Tree produces distinctive small red fleshy aril-like fruits (modified scales) on branch tips

Maintain regular care; allow natural fruit development for wildlife benefit; fruits attract birds

Mature

50+ years

Large, fully-developed tree at maximum ornamental and structural value

Minimal maintenance; remove dead or diseased branches; protect from extreme weather

Companion Planting

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Plant with:

Westland Sprite (Podocarpus species) New Zealand Christmas tree (Metrosideros excelsa) Pittosporum Griselinia Tree ferns (Cyathea species)

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring very dry conditions Shallow-rooted shrubs that compete for moisture Salt-sensitive plants in coastal areas

Common Pests

Prune affected branches; apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season; inspect regularly for infestations
Increase humidity with regular misting; spray water forcefully to dislodge; use miticide if severe
Remove and burn affected branches; maintain tree vigor with proper watering and care; apply systemic insecticide if necessary

Uses

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High-quality native timber

Timber

Rimu wood is highly prized in New Zealand for fine furniture-making, joinery, and construction due to its strength, workability, and beautiful grain. It is considered a premium native timber and is now protected in its native habitat. [source]

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Native bird and fauna support

Wildlife

The fruits and seeds attract native New Zealand birds including pigeons and tuis, making it valuable for habitat restoration and biodiversity enhancement. The dense foliage provides shelter for native wildlife. [source]

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Historical food source

Culinary

In traditional Māori use, the fruits were occasionally consumed and held cultural significance. Today it is primarily grown for ornamental and ecological value rather than food. [source]

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Ornamental specimen tree

Household

Rimu serves as an excellent architectural accent tree for gardens in temperate climates, providing year-round evergreen interest, distinctive form, and cultural significance as a New Zealand native species. [source]

Harvest Tips

Not typically harvested as a food crop. In native New Zealand forestry, timber is harvested only from mature trees (80+ years old) for specialized wood products. Collect seeds in autumn when fruits are ripe for propagation purposes.

Fun Facts

🌱 Rimu is one of New Zealand's most culturally significant native trees, featuring prominently in Māori history and traditional ecological knowledge.
🌱 The tree's name comes from the Māori word 'rimu,' and mature specimens in New Zealand can live for over 900 years, with some individuals being among the oldest trees in the Southern Hemisphere.
🌱 Unlike many conifers, Rimu produces fleshy red fruits that resemble berries, which is unusual for podocarp conifers and aids in seed dispersal by native birds.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Full Sun Mulch Partial Shade Transplant

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