Dacrycarpus dacrydioides aka New Zealand Dacryberry

Dacrycarpus dacrydioides is an evergreen tree from New Zealand. Its common names include kahikatea and New Zealand white pine. It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family. The older name Podocarpus dacrydioides refers to the same species. It grows in lowland forests on North, South and Stewart Islands. In swamp forests, it can be the main tree species.

This tree grows much smaller in Britain than at home. British garden trees seldom exceed 20 feet [6 metres]. In its native forests, it can reach 148 feet [45 metres]. Growth is slow in Britain, where cold limits its use. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. The evidence gives no further detail on leaf shape or bark.

Male and female reproductive structures grow on separate trees. Wind carries the pollen between them. Both sexes must grow nearby if seed is wanted. A lone tree cannot fertilise itself. The edible fruit has a sweet taste with a slight oily note. People eat it raw. The tree also yields resin that people use as chewing gum. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards. This does not establish safety for every use or for pets. The same source records no medicinal uses.

In cultivation, give it shelter and moist woodland conditions. It grows in partial shade, including sites beneath light tree cover. Sandy soil, loam and clay can all suit it. It accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline soils. Frost limits outdoor planting to the mildest parts of Britain. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. Young plants need protection during their first winter or two outdoors. Its need for shelter and moisture matters when choosing a site.

A woodland garden offers a setting that suits its needs. It also tolerates trimming, so a hedge may work in mild areas. Its yellowish wood is easy to work. Uses include general carpentry and paper pulp. Seed raising calls for patience, since germination can take 18 months or longer. Sow ripe seed in a cold frame. Keep seedlings under glass through at least their first winter. Plant them out after frost risk has passed in late spring or early summer. Cuttings from short leading shoots offer another way to raise plants. The supplied evidence names no pests or diseases.