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Description
Metaneckera Menziesii, commonly known as Kahikatea or White Pine, is a species of coniferous tree native to New Zealand. It belongs to the family of Podocarpaceae and is considered one of the largest trees in New Zealand, reaching heights of up to 66 feet. It is a slow-growing tree with a lifespan of over 800 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus | Metaneckera |
Appearance
Kahikatea has a narrow, conical shape with a straight trunk and a broad, rounded crown. The bark is smooth and grey, and the leaves are narrow and sharp, measuring up to 1.6 inches in length. The tree produces small, oval-shaped cones that are around 1 inch long and have a bluish-black color. The wood of Kahikatea is light and soft, making it easy to work with.
Care Guide
Water: Kahikatea prefers moist soil, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure the soil is saturated.Fertilization: Fertilize Kahikatea once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.Soil: Kahikatea prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sunlight: Kahikatea prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Hardiness Zones: Kahikatea is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kahikatea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, although it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also be affected by aphids, scale insects, and mealybugs, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
Kahikatea is endemic to New Zealand and is found throughout the North and South Islands. It grows in lowland forests, along riverbanks, and in wetlands. Kahikatea is an important species in New Zealand’s ecosystem, providing habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kahikatea an endangered species?
A: Kahikatea is classified as a threatened species in New Zealand due to habitat loss and fragmentation.Q: Can Kahikatea be grown in a container?
A: Kahikatea is not suitable for container growing due to its large size and deep root system.Q: How fast does Kahikatea grow?
A: Kahikatea is a slow-growing tree, usually growing less than 1 inch per year.Q: Can Kahikatea tolerate drought?
A: Kahikatea prefers moist soil and may not tolerate prolonged periods of drought.
Related Plants
– Podocarpus totara- Agathis australis- Dacrycarpus dacrydioides- Prumnopitys ferruginea- Podocarpus hallii
References
– “Metaneckera menziesii.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/metaneckera-menziesii/- “Metaneckera menziesii.” The Gymnosperm Database. https://www.conifers.org/po/me/menziesii.htm- “Kahikatea.” New Zealand Geographic. https://www.nzgeo.com/stories/kahikatea/
