Phyllocladus toatoa

Phyllocladus toatoa is a small, dioecious or monoecious, conical or bushy tree that grows to 15 m (49 ft) in height and 60 cm (24 in) in diameter at maturity on average.^[2] The outer bark ranges in color from dark brown to a silvery-brown.^[3] P. toatoa is distinguishable from other species in the genus Phyllocladus due to its whorled pinnate phylloclades with diamond-shaped segments.^[2] Attached to whorled branches are cladodes.^[4] P. toatoa flowers between October and December, leading to a fruiting stage between January and March.^[5] The fruit is a nut sitting in a cup shaped envelope.^[4] Each fruit contains 3-4 3 mm square shaped seeds which are black at maturity.^[3] Cultivated mature plants flower annually.^[3] The species is wind pollinated by male cones which produce large quantities of pollen.^[3] Seeds are black.^[6] Mature seeds are dispersed from the cone through swelling of the cone bracts ejecting the seeds to the ground.^[3] Distribution is limited, resulting in many seeds landing on the ground under the female tree.^[3] Establishment of the species over a large area indicates that P. toatoa is dispersed by wind and birds.^[3] P. toatoa is difficult to propagate and is relatively slow growing.^[7]

This species is endemic to New Zealand and is found in the North Island.^[6]

Phyllocladus toatoa can be found in lowlands and montane forests including the central North Island and northwards.^[3] It is considered to be well protected and not considered threatened.^[3] Due to its tolerance of infertile soils, it can be found on exposed ridges, around bog margins, and other poorly drained land in New Zealand.^[8] The preferred habitat is that of a temperate climate with well-drained, moist soil, where roots are partially shaded and foliage is exposed to sun.^[5]