Also known as New Zealand Cedar · Plume Incense Cedar
Kawaka (Libocedrus plumosa) is an aromatic evergreen conifer native to New Zealand, known for its distinctive flattened sprays of foliage and often used as an ornamental
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil, but dislikes waterlogging. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained, sandy loam
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate climates. Protect from extreme heat and hard frosts, especially when young.
Low
25% intensity
Benefits from light feeding in spring; avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during establishment. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly in cooler months, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings to prevent root rot.
Prune to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done to shape the tree, but avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the plant.
The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Best propagated from seed sown in autumn or early spring. Seeds require a period of cold stratification.
Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in late summer or early autumn, but are generally more difficult to root.
Young plants may benefit from repotting every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide more space. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Mature trees are best left in situ and generally do not require repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Kawaka (Libocedrus plumosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Libocedrus |
| Species | Libocedrus plumosa |
Similar in genus Libocedrus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
