Family: Podocarpaceae
Author: (A.Rich.) de Laub.
Bibliography: J. Arnold Arbor. 50: 337 (1969)
Year: 1969
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Dacrycarpus
Vegetable: False
Observations: New Zealand
Description
The New Zealand dacryberry, known scientifically as Dacrycarpus dacrydioides, is a majestic evergreen tree belonging to the Podocarpaceae family. Renowned for its striking presence in the verdant landscapes of New Zealand, this species is celebrated for its significant ecological and aesthetic value.
The New Zealand dacryberry can often be found in the lowland forests, thriving in the temperate climate that characterizes much of its native region. This tree typically boasts a straight, towering trunk accompanied by a canopy of lush, green foliage. Its leaves are a distinct feature, presenting a soft, delicate appearance that changes with age, with younger leaves being needle-like and the mature ones becoming broader and more scale-like.
One of the intriguing aspects of the New Zealand dacryberry is its reproductive system. The tree is dioecious, meaning that individual trees are either male or female. Male trees produce small, inconspicuous cones that release pollen, while female trees yield tiny, berry-like cones, which turn a vivid red when they mature, hence giving the tree its common name. These red cones are not only a visual delight but also play a crucial role in the tree’s reproduction, facilitating seed dispersal through the native birds that feed on them.
The New Zealand dacryberry has long been an integral part of the country’s natural heritage. Its wood, known for being lightweight and durable, was traditionally used by indigenous Maori communities for various purposes, including constructing canoes and buildings. Today, while conservation efforts have curtailed extensive logging, the wood is sometimes still used in specialized applications.
Culturally and ecologically, Dacrycarpus dacrydioides stands as a symbol of New Zealand’s rich natural bounty. Its presence in the forests contributes to biodiversity, offering habitat and food for various species. As the landscape continues to evolve, the New Zealand dacryberry remains a vital part of the natural tapestry, a testament to the country’s unique flora.
For additional scientific research and detailed botanical descriptions, the work by J. Arnold published in 1969 provides an extensive examination of this esteemed species. The authoritative classification by (A.Rich.) de Laub. further underscores the botanical significance and enduring legacy of the New Zealand dacryberry.
Common Names
Eng: new zealand dacryberry, white pine, kahika, kahikatea, white-pine
Ita: podocarpo della nuova zelanda
Mri: kahikatea
En: New Zealand dacryberry, White pine, Kahika, Kahikatea, White-pine
It: Podocarpo della Nuova Zelanda
Mi: Kahikatea
Synonyms
- Nageia excelsa ((D.Don) Kuntze)
- Podocarpus thujoides (R.Br.)
- Podocarpus excelsus ((D.Don) Druce)
- Dacrydium ferrugineum (Van Houtte ex Gordon & Glend.)
- Nageia dacrydioides ((A.Rich.) F.Muell.)
- Podocarpus dacrydioides (A.Rich.)
- Dacrydium excelsum (D.Don)
Distribution
- New Zealand North (native)
- New Zealand South (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Oct 1, 2022 by Brett Wagstaff (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 17, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 17, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 17, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 4, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 17, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 19, 2021 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2687859)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:687947-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Dacrycarpus dacrydioides (A.Rich.) de Laub.)