Phyllocladus trichomanoides aka Celery Pine

Phyllocladus trichomanoides is an evergreen conifer from New Zealand. Its common names include tanekaha and celery pine. It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family. It grows in lowland forests on both main islands. Its range extends south to about latitude 42°S. Kew places it in the subtropical climate zone.

This tree grows upright and forms a cone-shaped crown. RHS gives a garden height of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. It lists the same range for the spread. Its fuller account notes an eventual height of 39 feet [12 metres]. Plants take 20–50 years to reach their mature size. The bark is smooth and grey-black. Branches grow in whorls around the trunk. These features give the tree a clear, tiered outline.

The green parts that resemble leaves are flattened stems called phylloclades. These reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] long. Diamond-shaped segments divide each phylloclade. New growth starts reddish-brown and then turns mid-green. The true leaves are small scales. In spring, the tree bears male and female cones. Round female cones are dark blue or black. The male cones resemble catkins. They begin purple, turn red, and then become yellow.

RHS recommends full sun and shelter from harsh exposure. It lists moist loam that drains well. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. For UK cultivation, RHS recommends growing it under glass. Use peat-free, loam-based compost with added leaf mould. Keep the plant free from frost. Its RHS hardiness rating is H2. PFAF lists USDA zones 8–11, a separate guide to hardiness. RHS suggests conservatories and greenhouses as planting sites. PFAF also lists woodland gardens and sunny woodland edges. Seeds can be sown in spring. Semi-ripe cuttings can be taken in summer. RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems.

The tree also has a history of practical use. Its strong, dense, heavy wood has served as railway sleepers. People have also used it for mine supports. The bark supplies tannin and dye. Reported dye colours range from red to orange-yellow. PFAF records an astringent medicinal use, with a low medicinal rating. It lists no known edible uses and gives no known hazards. That lack of reported hazards does not establish food safety. PFAF does not flag the tree as weedy.