Libocedrus bidwillii aka Cedar

Libocedrus bidwillii is an evergreen tree from New Zealand. It belongs to the cypress family, Cupressaceae. Its common names include pahautea and pahatua. It grows in mountain and subalpine forests on both main islands. Plants For A Future places its range in the western North Island. It also lists the northern part of the South Island. This forest tree keeps its leaves throughout the year.

Growth is slow, and reported height reaches 66 feet [20 metres]. The evidence gives no clear mature spread for garden trees. One tree at Nymans, Sussex, reached 26 feet [8 metres] by 1970. That record shows it can grow outdoors in parts of Britain. It does not establish a usual garden height. Crushed leaves give off a mild, sweet, resin-like scent. This adds scent to its value as an evergreen tree.

Male and female reproductive structures occur on the same tree. Wind carries the pollen between them. Plants For A Future gives September to October for seed ripening. It does not give a flowering season. The supplied sources offer no details about cone shape or colour. They also give no description of the bark or leaf shape. Its year-round foliage suits a woodland setting, where it can form part of the canopy.

Choose a sheltered site with deep soil rich in humus. The tree needs moist ground and high air humidity. It can grow in sun or partial shade. Sandy, loamy, and clay soils all fall within its stated tolerance. It accepts mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline conditions. Protect it from cold, drying winds from the east. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10, but treats British hardiness with caution. These needs make site choice important in cultivation.

The wood is soft, durable, and easy to work. Reported uses include bridges and roof shingles. The wood may also help deter insects. Plants For A Future lists no known food or medicinal uses. It also reports no known hazards, but this does not prove safety. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases. Plants For A Future does not flag the tree as weedy.