Agathis australis

How to grow Agathis australis

Agathis australis is a majestic New Zealand native that requires careful planning to grow successfully. It prefers free-draining, acidic to neutral soils and should be planted in a sunny to partially shaded position, ideally sheltered from strong winds. Kauri trees are slow-growing, so patience is essential. They need ample space—both above and below ground—as their roots spread widely, and their mature size can be enormous. When planting, dig a large hole and incorporate organic compost to enrich the soil. Avoid disturbing the roots of existing Kauri trees, as they are sensitive and prone to Kauri dieback disease, a soil-borne pathogen. Water the tree regularly during the first few years to help it establish, but avoid overwatering. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, but keep mulch away from the trunk. Fertilising is usually unnecessary unless the soil is poor. For best results, avoid heavy foot traffic or soil compaction near the root zone.

Agathis australis for sale

The Plant Company has the best Agathis australis for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your tree and plant needs and impress you with both our products and service!

What height does Agathis australis grow to?

Agathis australis are among the world's largest trees, growing in height to over 50 m tall, with trunk girths up to 16 m, and living for over 2,000 years. Kauri forests once covered 1.2 million ha in Northland and were common when the first people settlers arrived.

What conditions does Agathis australis need to grow well?

Agathis australis grows best in well-drained, acidic to neutral soils and requires a sunny or lightly shaded position that is protected from strong winds. It thrives in areas with high rainfall and humidity, which mimic its natural forest habitat. While tolerant of a range of soil types, it does not tolerate poor drainage or waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot and increased risk of Kauri dieback disease. The tree needs ample space both above and below ground to accommodate its eventual size and wide root system. Kauri also prefers areas with minimal root disturbance and soil compaction, making it unsuitable for high-traffic areas. A warm, temperate climate is ideal, and regular watering is essential when the tree is young to support healthy establishment.

How hardy is Agathis australis?

Agathis australis is moderately hardy. It can tolerate light frosts once established, but young trees are sensitive to freezing temperatures and should be protected in colder regions. It thrives in mild, temperate climates with good rainfall and is best suited to coastal or lowland areas of northern New Zealand. While it can handle short periods of dryness once mature, it is not drought-hardy when young and will struggle in areas with extreme cold or prolonged dry spells. Providing shelter and consistent moisture in the early years helps improve its overall hardiness.

Agathis australis care

Agathis australis trees are low-maintenance once established, but they require attentive care during their early years. Watering is important for young trees—keep the soil moist but not soggy, particularly during dry periods. Mature trees are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from deep watering in prolonged drought. Mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture and control weeds; however, avoid placing mulch directly against the trunk to prevent rot. Avoid disturbing the soil near the roots, as Kauri are highly susceptible to Phytophthora agathidicida, the pathogen responsible for Kauri dieback disease. Do not compact the soil or walk near the root zone, and always clean footwear and tools with disinfectant if you're in or near natural Kauri areas. Kauri don’t generally require fertilising unless grown in nutrient-poor soils. Pruning should be minimal—remove only dead or damaged branches, ideally in dry weather to reduce infection risk. With good drainage, space to grow, and protection from root zone disturbance, Kauri trees can thrive for centuries.