How to Grow Totara
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Totara
Podocarpus totara
treeTotara is a large evergreen coniferous tree native to New Zealand, prized for its dense foliage, attractive reddish-brown bark, and durability. It grows slowly to moderate speed and can reach heights of 60-80 feet in ideal conditions. Totara has been traditionally valued for timber and is an important part of New Zealand's native forest ecosystems.
When should you plant Totara in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Totara timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Totara
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Totara
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Totara dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-10b; prefers mild climates without extreme cold
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Seed Germination
4-8 weeksSeeds begin sprouting after cold stratification period (6-8 weeks). Seedlings are delicate with fine cotyledons.
Maintain consistent moisture and cool temperatures; provide bright indirect light. Use seed tray with well-draining seed-starting mix.
Seedling & Juvenile
1-2 yearsYoung plants develop true needle-like foliage and establish a root system. Growth is slow initially with compact branching.
Protect from strong winds; provide bright light; avoid overwatering. Keep soil slightly moist but not soggy. Harden off gradually before transplanting.
Establishment
2-4 yearsTree develops stronger trunk and more substantial branch structure. Foliage becomes denser and plant shows improved vigor.
Water during dry spells; stake if necessary for wind protection. Apply mulch around base. Begin light pruning to shape if desired.
Mature Growth
Ongoing (many years)Tree reaches substantial size with dense foliage canopy, characteristic reddish-brown bark becomes prominent, and slow continued growth.
Minimal intervention needed once established. Occasional pruning for shape or to remove damaged branches. Maintain adequate moisture during extended droughts.
Reproductive
Ongoing after maturityMature trees produce small cream-colored flowers and distinctive fleshy purple fruits (drupes) containing single seeds.
No specific action needed. Fruits may be left for wildlife or cleaned up depending on location. Trees typically begin flowering after 5-10 years.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Inspect regularly; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if infestations occur; prune heavily affected branches.
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Increase humidity; spray with water to dislodge; use miticides if severe.
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Remove by hand; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation.
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging; treat with fungicides if caught early; remove severely affected plants.
Uses
Wildlife shelter and food
WildlifeTotara provides dense evergreen shelter for native birds and insects. The fleshy fruits attract native fauna and support ecosystem health. [source]
Ornamental screening and windbreak
HouseholdIts dense foliage and moderate to tall growth habit make totara excellent for privacy hedging, windbreaks, and large-scale landscape features. [source]
Durable timber and traditional value
CraftHistorically prized by Māori and European settlers for extremely durable timber used in building, fencing, and carving. Modern use is limited but reflects cultural significance. [source]
Traditional Māori medicine
MedicinalVarious parts of totara were traditionally used in Māori traditional healing practices, though modern scientific validation is limited. [source]
Native food source
CulinaryThe fleshy fruit pulp was historically consumed by Māori and early settlers, providing nutrition in traditional diets. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Totara is not harvested for typical garden yield. If collecting seeds: harvest mature purple fruits in autumn when they fall naturally or pick ripe fruit directly from tree; extract seed from fleshy pulp; clean and stratify seeds for 6-8 weeks at cold temperatures before sowing. Historically valued for timber harvesting but this is not a practical home gardening activity.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Totara is one of the longest-living tree species, with some individuals recorded as over 2000 years old, earning it reverence in Māori culture.
- 🌱 The wood is naturally rot-resistant and was famously used for Māori war canoes (waka) and buildings; a historic totara tree can indicate ancient settlement sites.
- 🌱 Totara was nearly driven to extinction through over-harvesting but is now protected and promoted as a native reforestation species throughout New Zealand.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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