Prumnopitys taxifolia aka Black Pine

Prumnopitys taxifolia is an evergreen tree from New Zealand. It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family. Common names include matai and black pine of New Zealand. Another name is Otago black rue. Older records may use the name Podocarpus spicatus. It grows in lowland forests on North and South Islands. Its forest range also includes Stewart Island. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

This slow-growing tree can reach about 82 feet (25 metres). Its leaves stay on the tree throughout the year. It can form part of a woodland garden canopy. It also suits hedges, since it tolerates repeated trimming. These uses allow for either a tall tree or clipped growth. Its wood has served for furniture, buildings, and bridges. The supplied sources give no garden spread or detailed bark description.

Male and female plants are separate, so one tree cannot supply both sexes. Grow both sexes if you want fruit and seed. Wind carries the pollen between plants. The seeds ripen from October to November, according to Plants For A Future. The fruit measures about 0.4 inches across and holds one seed. Its flesh tastes sweet and can be eaten raw. The source gives no exact flowering period for this species.

Choose a sheltered site with soil that stays moist. The tree accepts sand, loam, and clay. It also grows in chalk and other good garden soils. Suitable soil pH ranges from mildly acid to mildly alkaline. It can grow in light woodland shade or full sun. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–11. However, it warns that British cold limits outdoor planting. The mildest parts of Britain offer the best prospects. Keep young seedlings under glass through their first winter. Plant them out after the last expected frost.

Besides the fruit, people use the sap and young shoots. They drink the watery sap or make a beer-like drink. Reports also describe a similar drink made from young shoots. Plants For A Future records no known hazards or medicinal uses. That does not establish safety for every person or pet. It reports no weed concern for this tree. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.