Biology:Phyllocladus trichomanoides
| Tanekaha | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Gymnospermae |
| Division: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Araucariales |
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus: | Phyllocladus |
| Species: | P. trichomanoides
|
| Binomial name | |
| Phyllocladus trichomanoides D.Don
| |
Phyllocladus trichomanoides, commonly known as the tānekaha or celery pine, is a coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand.
Description

Tānekaha is a medium-sized forest tree growing up to 25 metres (82 feet) in height and 1 m trunk diameter.[2] The main structural shoots are green-skinned for 2–3 years, then turn brown as the bark thickens. The leaves are sparse, tiny, scale-like, 2–3 mm long, and only green (photosynthetic) for a short time, soon turning brown.
Most photosynthesis is performed by phylloclades, highly modified, leaf-like short shoots; these are arranged alternately, 10–15 on a shoot, the individual phylloclades rhombic, 1.5–2–5 cm long. The seed cones are berry-like, with a fleshy white aril surrounding but not fully enclosing the single seed.
Distribution
In the North Island, this species is found in lowland forests from Te Paki to 40°S.[2] In the South Island, this species is found in northern Marlborough and Nelson to 41°30'S.[2]
Pests and diseases
This species plays host to the New Zealand endemic beetle Agapanthida morosa.[3]
Economic uses
Like the kauri, tānekaha shed their lower branches, producing smooth straight trunks and knot-free timber which is sought after for its strength.
The bark is rich in tannin, from which Māori extracted a red dye.[citation needed]
References
- ↑ Farjon, A. (2013). "Phyllocladus trichomanoides". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2013. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2013-1.RLTS.T42269A2968482.en. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/42269/2968482. Retrieved 20 March 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Eagle, Audrey (2008) (in English). Eagle's complete trees and shrubs of New Zealand volume one. Wellington: Te Papa Press. pp. 32. ISBN 9780909010089. https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q63848025.
- ↑ , Wikidata Q56166058
External links
| Wikimedia Commons has media related to Phyllocladus trichomanoides. |
Wikidata ☰ Q5409426 entry
