Podocarpus totara, commonly known as totara, is an iconic native tree of New Zealand. It boasts dense, dark-green foliage and a tall, straight trunk, making it a majestic presence in forests and landscapes. It has needle- like foliage and can reach a height of 30m. They grow in full sun to partial shade and moist but well drained soil. Totara wood is highly valued for its durability and versatility, historically used by Māori for building waka (canoes) and wharenui (meeting houses). Moderate /high flammability species.
