Libocedrus plumosa

An evergreen conifer with a pyramidal shape when young maturing to a rounded shape that grows up to 35m tall 3m wide.

Rich green leaves are compressed and flattened giving a feathery effect. Libocedrus plumosa has closely overlapping scale leaves athese are rranged in four rows of opposite pairs at right angles to those above and below.
No flowers produced but cones form from June to July at the end of the branches. The male and female cones occur at the tips of twigs on the same tree. When ripe the tiny dry woody cones split open to release two winged seeds which are dispersed by wind.
The bark is red-brown in colour and is shed in thin strips.

Prefers free-draining, moderately fertile, moist soil, though once established it can tolerate considerable drought. Full sun or partial shade is preferred.

Always choose healthy well-grown plants. Planting after autumn rains when the soil is moist and warm allows trees to become established before winter. Before planting ensure that the root-ball is saturated and remove planter bag pot or wrapping with the minimum of root disturbance. Trim any broken roots or branches and plant at the same level as in the container. Long term slow release fertilisers may be added at this stage. As soil is placed in the prepared hole tread firmly to bring soil in close contact with the root-ball.

Tall plants and those in windy positions may require staking to stabilize the root ball until established. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Tie firmly with wide ties but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind encouraging the development of a strong root system without the risk of chafing or root damage. Unless the soil is very wet water thoroughly making sure that moisture penetrates to the depth of the root-ball.

Mulch annually with organic matter to help conserve moisture an suppress weeds. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose. Keep mulching material away from plant stems. A light dressing annually of organic fertiliser is beneficial.

Little pruning is required. The root-ball sometimes dries out despite the surrounding soil being moist; direct water down the plant stem to saturate the root-ball. The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods.

Pest and disease-free.

Native Identification Trail

Libocedrus plumosa is a species of conifer endemic to New Zealand occurring on the North Island in lowland and hill forest near Te Paki and to the south of Kawhia in the west and Gisborne in the East. It also grows in the north of the South Island near Nelson. It is classed as 'at risk' as it needs disturbed areas to regenerate.

It grows from sea level up to 600m in temperate rainforests. In the past, it was selectively milled to near extinction for its red wood which was used for house shingles and in cabinet making. The wood is dark-coloured beautifully grained close and heavy and was often used to make picture frames.