How to Grow Rimu
iNaturalist
Rimu
Dacrydium cupressinum
treeRimu is a large, slow-growing native New Zealand conifer tree that can reach heights of 20-40 meters in natural forests. It is characterized by its dense, feathery foliage and reddish-brown timber, making it both ecologically and commercially valuable. The tree is long-lived, often reaching 600+ years of age, and plays an important role in New Zealand's native forest ecosystems.
When should you plant Rimu 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 Rimu timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Rimu
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 Rimu
Late summer into fallBefore 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
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in temperate maritime climates of zones 9b-10b, primarily suited to New Zealand and similar cool temperate regions
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Get my Rimu timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
1-2 yearsTiny seeds germinate to produce delicate seedlings with short primary needles and minimal height (1-10 cm)
Maintain consistent moisture, provide filtered light, protect from strong direct sun and wind. Keep seedlings in nursery beds or containers for 1-2 years
Juvenile Growth
5-10 yearsYoung trees develop feathery, fern-like foliage and establish a branching structure; height ranges from 0.5-3 meters
Provide staking if necessary, maintain weed-free zones, apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature. Begin light pruning to shape if desired
Maturing Tree
15-50 yearsTree develops thicker trunk, denser canopy, and characteristic conical form; height 5-15+ meters
Reduce watering as roots deepen, remove lower dead branches, monitor for pests. Minimal intervention required as tree establishes dominance
Flowering/Reproduction
Ongoing after maturityMature trees (15+ years) produce small male and female cones; reproduction is slow and sporadic
No special care needed. Seeds mature slowly and are dispersed by wind and birds over 2-3 years
Ancient/Decline
CenturiesVery old trees (300+ years) may show slower growth and senescence but remain structurally sound for centuries
Preserve old trees; minimal intervention. Monitor for storm damage and disease
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rarely severe; handpick if needed or use insecticidal soap for heavy infestations
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Spray with horticultural oil during dormant season; monitor for heavy infestations
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Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and care; remove and destroy heavily infested branches
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Protect young trees with tree guards; larger trees are resistant
Uses
Premium Timber
HouseholdRimu wood is highly valued for fine furniture, boat building, and decorative paneling due to its reddish-brown color, durability, and workability. It is considered one of New Zealand's most prized native timbers [source]
Ecological Foundation
WildlifeRimu forests provide critical habitat for native New Zealand birds, insects, and epiphytic plants. The trees support complex forest ecosystems and play a keystone role in native forest regeneration [source]
Traditional Māori Use
CulinaryHistorically, Māori people used rimu seeds and other parts for food and medicinal purposes. Modern use is limited but reflects cultural significance [source]
Woodworking & Art
CraftCraftspeople use rimu for intricate carvings, veneer work, and fine woodcraft due to its beautiful grain and stability. It is also used in traditional Māori tā moko (carving) projects [source]
Ornamental & Conservation Tree
HouseholdRimu is planted in botanical gardens, native plant collections, and restoration projects to preserve genetic diversity and restore cultural landscapes [source]
Harvest Tips
Rimu is not typically harvested for crops. Timber harvesting of mature trees requires forestry expertise and sustainable management practices. Seeds can be collected when cones ripen (2-3 years after flowering) and are best sown fresh. Collection is primarily for conservation and reforestation projects
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Rimu trees are among the longest-lived trees in the Southern Hemisphere, with some individuals exceeding 600 years old and providing records of climate and environmental change
- 🌱 The scientific name 'cupressinum' means 'cypress-like,' reflecting the tree's feathery foliage that resembles cypress despite being a true podocarp conifer
- 🌱 Rimu was heavily logged during European settlement of New Zealand but is now protected and actively replanted; old-growth rimu forests are rare and highly valued conservation areas
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