Overview of Phyllocladus trichomanoides:
Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly known as the tanekaha tree, is a coniferous tree native to New Zealand that belongs to the family Phyllocladaceae. The tree can be found throughout the North and South Islands of New Zealand and only grows in specific habitats, such as damp gullies or stream sides.
General appearance:
The tanekaha tree grows up to 30 meters tall and has a spread of 10-15 meters. Its leaves are not true leaves but rather modified stems that are flattened and leaf-like, known as phylloclades. The phylloclades are shiny dark green on top and have a silvery underside. The tree has a narrow, conical shape that is ideal for use as a timber tree.
Uses:
The Phyllocladus trichomanoides tree is highly valued in New Zealand for its durable, strong timber. The timber is used in construction, furniture making, and boat building. Additionally, the tree has medicinal properties that have been used by the indigenous Maori people. The bark, leaves, and resin of the tree are used in traditional remedies for stomach ailments, burns, and cuts.
Common names:
Aside from its scientific name, Phyllocladus trichomanoides, the tree is known by several common names in New Zealand. Its Maori name is tanekaha, which means "strong man," while it is also known as the celery pine due to the appearance of its phylloclades.
Light Requirements
Phyllocladus trichomanoides typically grows in shaded areas, as it is adapted to low-light conditions. It can tolerate partial sun but is unlikely to thrive in full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Phyllocladus trichomanoides has a broad temperature tolerance range, as it is adapted to variable climates in its native range. However, it prefers cool and moist conditions, typically growing in temperate regions.
Soil Requirements
Phyllocladus trichomanoides grows best in well-drained soils that are moist and nutrient-rich. It does not tolerate poorly drained or compacted soils, which can lead to root rot and stunted growth. Acidic soils with a pH level between 4.5 and 6.0 are ideal for this species.
Cultivation
Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly known as tanekaha, is a native plant in New Zealand. It is easy to grow in most soil types, including clay and loam, and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. This plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. It is best planted in a sunny or partly shaded location with protection from strong winds, especially for young plants. When planting, ensure you dig a hole approximately two times larger than the root ball.
Watering Needs
Tanekaha requires well-draining soil for optimal growth, and watering should be adjusted to reflect the type of soil in which the plant is grown. This plant needs regular watering in dry weather conditions, especially during the early years of establishment. During summer, it is recommended to water the plant two to three times per week thoroughly. Ensure that the plant does not sit in waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Phyllocladus trichomanoides is not a heavy feeder, but it thrives with regular fertilization. Fertilize the plant during its active growth periods, which is typically during spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 5-5-5 or 10-10-10, applied at a rate of 2 tablespoons per square foot of the plant's drip line. After application, ensure the fertilizer is incorporated into the soil to avoid burning the roots.
Pruning
Tanekaha requires little pruning except for the occasional deadheading of faded flowers. You can also prune away any dead, broken, or diseased branches. However, it is crucial to prune the plant's lower branches to allow light penetration and promote air circulation. This is to prevent fungus build-up and help regulate the plant's growth and shape. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring while the plant is dormant. Always sterilize your pruning tools to prevent the transfer of diseases.
Propagation of Phyllocladus trichomanoides
Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly known as the mountain toatoa, is an evergreen coniferous tree that belongs to the family Phyllocladaceae. It is native to New Zealand's North and South Islands and typically grows in subalpine and coastal forests. The propagation of Phyllocladus trichomanoides can be done through two methods: seed propagation and cuttings propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method to propagate Phyllocladus trichomanoides. The cones of the female tree produce seeds that are small, brown, and winged. The seeds need to be collected from the cones and processed before sowing to enhance germination rates. The processing involves soaking the seeds in a solution of 5% hydrochloric acid for 30 minutes to remove the seed coat. After which, the seeds are washed with water and sown into trays filled with moist sand and peat moss. The trays should be kept in a cool and shaded area with temperatures ranging from 18-20°C until seedlings emerge in about two to three weeks. The seedlings are then transplanted into separate pots and grown in a greenhouse until they are large enough to be planted in the field.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method to propagate Phyllocladus trichomanoides. It involves taking cuttings from the tree's branch tips during the growing season (spring/summer). The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and taken from the current season's growth. The leaves on the lower two-thirds of the cutting must be stripped, and the base of the cutting must be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings are then inserted into trays filled with moist sand and peat moss, and the trays are covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The trays should be kept in a cool and shaded area with temperatures ranging from 18-20°C until roots develop in about two to three months. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings are transplanted into separate pots and grown in a greenhouse until they are large enough to be planted in the field.
Disease Management
Phyllocladus trichomanoides is generally a healthy plant, but it might get affected by certain diseases. The most common disease that affects the plant is root rot. To manage root rot, it is recommended to plant the tree in well-draining soil and avoid watering it excessively. Another disease that might affect the plant is leaf spot, which causes small spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Powdery mildew is also a potential issue for Phyllocladus trichomanoides, which causes a white powdery substance on the leaves. It is best managed by maintaining good air circulation, using fungicides, and avoiding overhead watering.
Pest Management
The most common pests that might affect Phyllocladus trichomanoides are the white pine weevil, scale insects, and spider mites. White pine weevils are beetle-like insects that might cause damage to the tree's trunk, while scale insects and spider mites suck the sap from the leaves. To manage these pests, it is recommended to apply insecticides that are specific to the targeted pest and the tree species. Regular pruning of affected branches also provides pest management. Ensuring good cultural practices, including proper watering, fertilization, and preventing wounding, also helps prevent pest infestation.
