Rimu (Dacrydium cupressinum)

Family: Podocarpaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Dacrydium cupressinum is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft 5in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. It can be somewhat constipating. A resinous substance from the young branches has been used to make an alcoholic beverage resembling spruce beer. The resin is bitter but edible. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; It can be somewhat constipating.; A resinous substance from the young branches has been used to make an alcoholic beverage resembling spruce beer.; The resin is bitter but edible.

Habitat & North American Range

Lowland and montane forests to 800 metres, on North, South and Stewart Islands. (Zone 8)