Totara (Podocarpus totara)

Family: Podocarpaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Podocarpus totara 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, and the seeds ripen in October. 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

Sweet and juicy but there is a hint of turpentine in its flavour, especially if it is not fully ripe. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Sweet and juicy but there is a hint of turpentine in its flavour, especially if it is not fully ripe.; The fruit is about 6mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Lowland, montane and sub-alpine forest on North, South and Stewart Islands. (Zone 8)