Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai)

Prumnopitys taxifolia (Matai) Details

Commonly known as Matai, this is a stately, NZ native tree with quite different juvenile and adult forms. The juvenile form has orange branches held with a tangled appearance and silver coloured foliage. It grows rapidly through the juvenile phase with growth slowing as maturity is reached. At this time the tree develops dense, yellow-green foliage and distinctive “hammer mark” patterns on the trunk. It typically grows to 10 m tall and 6 m wide, favouring a full sun position that is well drained. It will tolerate dry periods, partial shade, frost, and cool climates. The different forms make this both an unusual and attractive plant that is ideal for including in a mixed planting in a large garden or for using in a native revegetation project.