Large New Zealand Native Trees
Agathis australis – Kauri Tree | Iconic NZ Native Tree
Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching heights of up to 50 meters with a trunk girth exceeding 16 metres, Kauri trees can live for over 2,000 years, making them one of the world's largest and longest-living tree species. Young Kauri trees exhibit a narrow, upright growth habit, with lime-green leaves that mature to a bronze hue. As they age, the crown broadens, creating a stately presence in the landscape. Kauri trees thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained, fertile soils. While they can tolerate heavy soils and moderate frost once established, young trees require protection from frost and wind during their initial growth phase. Due to their impressive stature and cultural significance, Kauri trees are ideal as specimen trees in large gardens, parks, and native revegetation projects.
Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) – Majestic Native Canopy Tree for Biodiverse Landscapes
Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature are the masses of olive-like, purple fruits through autumn and winter which are favoured by birds. Also of interest are the leaves, which, when young are covered in red-brown hairs which disappear as the tree ages. Taraire grows to about 20 m tall and 7 m wide and has a smooth, brown trunk. Taraire thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate light to moderate frosts once established, young trees benefit from protection against harsh conditions. Its slow growth rate makes it ideal for long-term landscaping projects, including ecological restoration, park plantings, and as a specimen tree in larger gardens.
