30 Kahikatea seedlings, each about 6cm tall, sourced from seeds collected on private land on the West Coast of New Zealand (Germinated around October 2023).
Please note that these seedlings will be shipped bare-root, thoughtfully wrapped with Sphagnum moss, and securely packed in a container for delivery.
-Keep bare-rooted stock cool, moist, and plant promptly upon receipt. -Site: Damp to wet areas, requiring abundant sunlight. -Initially slow, with 20-30cm first-year growth. -Resistant to diseases, rarely affected by insects or fungi. Shows tolerance to frost and cooler climates. -Lifespan 600 years. -Recommended spacing 2x3 meters.
The Kahikatea (Dacrycarpus dacrydioides) stands as New Zealand's tallest forest tree, a true native forest giant, and the oldest podocarp in New Zealand. It's a relic from the Jurassic period, existing before flowering plants or birds. Once widespread across New Zealand's lowland, wetland, and river-flat areas, Kahikatea are now less common in the North Island due to historical logging and wetland clearing. The highest concentration is found on the West Coast, South Island.
Planting Kahikatea seedlings requires careful handling, keeping bare-rooted stock cool, moist, and planting promptly after wrenching. Kahikatea are slow-growing, taking at least two years before planting out, with initial growth of 20-30cm in the first year. They can reach 10m tall after 25 years, 20m by 50 years, and eventually grow to 50m tall with a 2m width.
Suitable sites for kahikatea vary from damp to very wet conditions, with indicators like rushes, Yorkshire fog, and creeping buttercup signaling suitable areas, especially in pastoral land. Drier sites may have a mix of natives like Matai and Totara. On exposed sites, plant fast-growing shrubs like Manuka or Karamu to protect young Kahikatea, and mound up plants for better root drainage. The fruit of Kahikatea is favored by Kereru and Tui.
