How to Grow New Zealand Rimu
New Zealand Rimu
Dacrydium cupressinum
treeRimu is a native New Zealand conifer and one of the tallest and most commercially important trees in New Zealand forests. It grows as an evergreen with fine, feathery foliage and can reach heights of 20-40 meters in its native habitat. This slow-growing, long-lived tree is prized for its timber and ecological significance in native forest ecosystems.
When should you plant New Zealand Rimu in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example New Zealand Rimu timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant New Zealand Rimu
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest New Zealand Rimu
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact New Zealand Rimu dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-10; prefers temperate maritime climates similar to New Zealand
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Seedling
6-12 monthsTiny seedlings with fine needle-like cotyledons emerge; very delicate with feathery green foliage
Provide shade cloth (50-75%), keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, maintain high humidity, protect from wind and direct sun
Juvenile
2-4 yearsYoung plants develop characteristic flattened, feathery foliage; growth is relatively slow; height reaches 1-3 feet
Gradually acclimate to brighter light, maintain moderate moisture, apply organic mulch, protect from harsh winds and frost
Established Growth
5-15 yearsTree develops stronger stem structure with fuller, more robust foliage; pyramidal form becomes apparent; moderate annual growth increment
Minimal pruning (only remove dead/damaged branches), ensure good drainage, mulch base, monitor for pests, reduce watering once fully established
Mature
20+ yearsLarge conifer with dense, feathery foliage and substantial trunk diameter; reaches 30+ feet in ideal conditions
No fertilizer needed; focus on maintaining health through proper spacing and airflow; minimal intervention required
Reproductive
Ongoing after 15-20 years maturityMature trees produce small inconspicuous flowers and develop distinctive berry-like red receptacles with small seeds
Ensure adequate moisture during fruiting; collect seeds if propagation desired; maintain tree health
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Monitor foliage, remove affected branches, apply horticultural oil spray in dormant season, encourage natural predators
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Prune affected growth, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil, improve air circulation
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Remove and destroy affected branches, maintain tree vigor, minimize stress from drought or physical damage
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Not applicable in cultivation outside New Zealand; in native habitat, forest management strategies employed
Uses
Premium timber and woodworking
HouseholdRimu wood is highly valued for fine furniture, cabinetry, boat building, and architectural applications due to its beautiful grain, durability, and workability. In New Zealand, it remains one of the most important commercial timber species. [source]
Native forest habitat and biodiversity
WildlifeRimu is a keystone species in New Zealand native forests, providing food and habitat for endemic birds, insects, and other wildlife. Its fruiting bodies feed native pigeons and other forest fauna. [source]
Ornamental landscape planting
CraftRimu is planted as a specimen tree in gardens and parks in temperate regions to recreate New Zealand native forest aesthetics and provide year-round evergreen interest. [source]
Traditional Māori uses
MedicinalIn traditional Māori culture, rimu had various applications including use of resin for waterproofing and medicinal preparations, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
Honey production
CulinaryRimu flowers are an important nectar source for bees in New Zealand, producing distinctive dark honeys with unique flavor profiles prized by beekeepers. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Rimu is not harvested by home gardeners. Commercial timber harvesting in New Zealand is conducted by licensed forestry operations following sustainable management practices. Seeds can be collected when receptacles turn red (mature stage), typically in late summer to autumn, for propagation purposes.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Rimu is one of New Zealand's oldest and longest-living trees, with some individuals estimated to be over 1,000 years old in native forests.
- 🌱 The tree's Māori name 'rimu' refers to the drooping, fine-textured foliage that resembles long hair, and the tree is culturally significant in New Zealand as a symbol of native forest heritage.
- 🌱 Rimu produces a distinctive resinous smell when foliage is crushed, and traditionally the resin was used by Māori for waterproofing and medicinal purposes.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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