Tawa Trees For Sale

Taraire and Tawa – Best In New Zealand!

Growing NZ native trees such as Taraire and Tawa in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• It helps to preserve New Zealand’s species.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

From large tawa and taraire trees to small ones, we’ll help you find the right sized tree for your space. These New Zealand-native plants have been eco-sourced and thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy a Tawa tree, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Beilschmiedia Questions

1. What conditions do taraire trees like to grow in?

Taraire trees (Beilschmiedia taraire) are native to New Zealand and grow in a variety of conditions. They are most commonly found in lowland forests, but can also be found in hill and mountain forests. They prefer moist, well-drained soils, and sheltered positions.

Here are some specific conditions that taraire trees like to grow in:

• Soil: trees prefer moist, well-drained soils. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefer soils that are rich in organic matter.
• Position: they prefer sheltered positions in full sun or partial shade, and need to be protected from strong winds.
• Climate: Taraire trees are relatively frost tolerant, but are best planted in areas where they will not be exposed to severe frosts.
• Water: they need regular watering, especially when they are young. Once established, they can tolerate some drought, but will perform best in areas where they receive regular rainfall.

Taraire trees are an important part of the New Zealand ecosystem and provide food and shelter for a variety of native birds and animals.

2. Are Taraire berries edible?

The berries from Taraire trees are edible and are a popular food for birds. They have an unusual flavour that is not immediately pleasant as it is akin to turpentine but it can grow on you! Our research suggests that the berries are safest to be cooked before being consumed.

3. Why is the Tawa tree important?

The Tawa tree is important for a variety of reasons:

Ecological importance:

• Food source for native birds: The large, purple drupes of the Tawa tree are a vital food source for many native birds, particularly the Kereru (New Zealand pigeon) and Kokako. These birds disperse the seeds of the Tawa, helping to regenerate the forest.
• Habitat for native insects and reptiles: The dense foliage of the Tawa tree provides shelter and food for a variety of native insects and reptiles, such as lizards and geckos.
• Contribution to forest structure and diversity: The Tawa tree is a dominant canopy tree in New Zealand forests, and its presence helps to create a complex and diverse forest ecosystem. This diversity is important for the health of the forest and the many species that live there.

Cultural importance:

• Traditional uses by Māori: The Tawa tree was traditionally used by Māori for a variety of purposes, including making spears, food storage containers, and tools. The bark was also used medicinally.
• Importance in Māori mythology: The Tawa tree is mentioned in several Māori myths and legends, and it is considered to be a taonga (treasure) by many iwi (tribes).

Economic importance:

• Timber: The timber of the Tawa tree is used for a variety of purposes, including furniture, flooring, and boat building.
• Carbon sequestration: Tawa trees store large amounts of carbon dioxide, which helps to mitigate climate change.

Overall, the Tawa tree is an important part of the New Zealand landscape, and it plays a vital role in the health of the country's ecosystems. Protecting Tawa trees is essential for the conservation of New Zealand's unique biodiversity and cultural heritage.

4. How tall can a Tawa tree grow?

A Tawa tree can grow quite tall, reaching impressive heights of up to 35 meters (115 feet) or even more in exceptional cases!

Here's a breakdown of their typical height range:

• Average: Most Tawa trees fall within the range of 20-30 meters (65-98 feet).
• Maximum: Some individual trees have been recorded reaching heights of 35-40 meters (115-131 feet).
• Factors affecting height: Several factors can influence how tall a Tawa tree grows, including:
  • Growing conditions: Sunlight, soil quality, and rainfall all play a role. Trees in ideal conditions with full sun and good soil drainage will generally grow taller.
  • Competition: Trees growing in dense forests with competition for light and resources may be shorter than those with more open spaces.
  • Age: Tawa trees are slow-growing, and it can take them centuries to reach their full height.

So, while most Tawa trees are in the 20-30 meter range, you might encounter some majestic giants towering even higher!

5. How do you identify a Tawa tree?

Identifying a Tawa tree can be done through a combination of observing its leaves, bark, fruit, and overall form. Here are some key features to look for:

Leaves:

• Shape: Narrow and elongated, lanceolate or ovate, with a pointed tip and rounded base. Willow-like in appearance.
• Color: Green to greenish-yellow on top, with a paler, glaucous (bluish-white) underside.
• Texture: Glossy and smooth on top, slightly rough on the underside.
• Veins: Prominent midrib with finer veins running parallel to it.

Bark:

• Color: Smooth and dark brown, often with patches of lichen.
• Texture: Smooth or slightly scaly, not deeply furrowed.

Fruit:

• Shape: Large, fleshy drupe, about the size of a plum, with a pointed tip.
• Color: Dark purple when ripe, with a single large seed inside.
• Season: Ripens in autumn and winter.

Overall Form:

• Canopy: Dense and rounded, often forming a prominent part of the forest canopy.
• Trunk: Straight and strong, with a buttressed base in older trees.
• Branches: Spreading horizontally, creating a layered appearance.

Additional tips:

• Look for birds like Kereru and Kokako feeding on the fruit, as they are often attracted to Tawa trees.
• Consider the location. Tawa trees are native to New Zealand and are most commonly found in lowland and lower montane forests.
• Compare the tree to pictures and descriptions of other native New Zealand trees to rule out similar species.

By using these clues and considering the context, you should be able to confidently identify a Tawa tree. Remember, it's always good to consult a field guide or expert if you're unsure.

6. Is Tawa an evergreen?

Tawa trees are evergreen! This means it maintains its green leaves throughout the year, unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall or winter. The Tawa's leaves are a beautiful glossy green colour, adding a vibrant touch to the New Zealand landscape even during the cooler months.

7. Is the Tawa tree native to NZ?

Tawa trees (Beilschmiedia tawa) are native to New Zealand! It's not just native, but in fact it's endemic to the country, meaning it naturally occurs only in New Zealand and nowhere else in the world.

The Tawa is a vital part of New Zealand's lowland and lower montane forests, playing a crucial role in the country's ecological and cultural heritage. It's a dominant canopy tree, providing food and habitat for diverse species, and holds significance in Māori traditions and mythology.

8. What conditions do taraire trees like to grow in?

Taraire trees are stunning evergreen trees endemic to New Zealand, known for their glossy green leaves, large purple fruits, and cultural significance. They thrive in specific conditions:

• Taraire favour warmer climates and are typically found in the northern half of the North Island, with their range extending south to Raglan and East Cape. They struggle with frosts and won't tolerate prolonged cold snaps.
• Good drainage is crucial for Taraire. They flourish in fertile, loamy soil that allows water to drain freely, preventing root rot. Waterlogged or heavy clay soils are not ideal.
• While Taraire tolerate partial shade, they thrive in full sun.
• Taraire appreciate consistent moisture but can handle short dry spells. Avoid planting them in excessively dry areas or those prone to droughts.
• While Taraire are sturdy trees, they benefit from protection from strong winds, especially during their early years. This helps prevent damage to leaves and branches.

9. How tall is the taraire tree?

The majestic taraire tree can reach impressive heights, typically ranging between 10 and 22 meters (33 to 72 feet). However, in exceptional circumstances, some individual specimens have been recorded soaring even higher, reaching up to 25 meters (82 feet)!

Several factors can influence how tall a taraire tree grows:

• Sunlight, soil quality, and rainfall all play a role. Trees in ideal conditions with full sun and good drainage will generally grow taller.
• Trees growing in dense forests with competition for light and resources are often taller than those with more open spaces.
• Taraire trees are slow-growing, and it can take them centuries to reach their full height.

So, while most taraire trees fall within the 15-20 m range, keep your eyes peeled for those rare giants that defy the norm and stand even taller! They are truly awe-inspiring sights to behold.

10. What is the meaning of taraire?

"Taraire" can have several meanings depending on the context:

1. Beilschmiedia tarairi: This is the scientific name for a large evergreen tree endemic to New Zealand. It's found primarily in the northern half of the North Island and is known for its:

• Glossy green leaves: The leaves are oval-shaped and have a leathery texture.
• Dark purple fruit: The berries ripen in autumn and winter and are a food source for many native birds.
• Cultural significance: The taraire tree is important in Māori culture and mythology.

2. "Shelter" or "protection" in Māori: The word "taraire" can also be used as a verb meaning "to shelter" or "to protect." This meaning is likely derived from the fact that the large leaves of the taraire tree provide shelter for birds and other animals.

3. "Strength" or "steadfastness" in Māori: Additionally, "taraire" can metaphorically symbolize strength and steadfastness. This meaning is associated with the tree's resilience and ability to thrive in challenging conditions.

Therefore, the meaning of "taraire" depends on whether it's being used as a noun (referring to the tree), a verb (meaning "to shelter"), or metaphorically (symbolizing strength).