Totara

Podocarpus totara

Physical Characteristics

Podocarpus totara is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

New Zealand.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 105, 153, 183]. Sweet and juicy but there is a hint of turpentine in its flavour, especially if it is not fully ripe[173]. The fruit is about 6mm in diameter[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Superficially similar to Taxus species, but this plant is definitely not poisonous[200].