Tawa (Beilschmiedia tawa) is a useful bushy evergreen tree that produces tough wood that can be used for many purposes including tools, flooring, barrels, and furniture. The wood is also pulped to make high-grade paper. The wood can be burned as a fuel source too. This long-lived tree can survive for 400 years.
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30 m
Plant Height
10 m
Spread
2 mm to 4 mm
Flower Size
White
Flower Color
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
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Distribution
Care Guide
FAQs
Images of Tawa
Distribution of Tawa
Distribution Map
Tawa is a plant species indigenous to the temperate rainforests of the southwestern Pacific region. Its presence is notably established across oceanic islands in this area. While it is native to this specific locale, tawa has not been widely introduced or naturalized in other global regions, maintaining a relatively confined distribution.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Shady moist forests in lowland and lower montane areas
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Care Guide for Tawa
Every 2-3 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
15 - 32 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water:
Tawa prefers environments with intermittent rains, thriving in moderate drought conditions. Watering every 2-3 weeks allows soil to dry out. As an outdoor plant in temperate zones, tawa aligns its growth cycle with seasonal rainfall, making it suitable for areas with defined wet and dry seasons.
Fertilize:
For optimal health, tawa requires balanced nutrition fertilizers quarterly and high nitrogen options in spring for robust growth. Caution against over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Use granular, slow-release fertilizers for consistency, adjusting frequency seasonally to ensure tawa thrives.
Pruning:
Tawa thrives with regular pruning during its dormant phase from early to late winter. This enhances air circulation, light penetration, and overall plant health. Removing dead or overcrowded branches fosters growth and reduces the incidence of diseases, ensuring a robust and appealing appearance.
Propagation:
Indigenous to New Zealand, tawa is a large tree with purplish-brown berries. Propagate tawa via cuttings from semi-hardwood stems, using rooting hormone in well-draining soil under high humidity and indirect light. Regular misting maintains moisture; however, rooting may take longer than other species.
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