New Caledonia Kauri
agathis moorei
Also known as: ["New Caledonia Kauri Pine","Agathis australis"]
Overview
A large, evergreen conifer native to New Caledonia, known for its tall trunk and dense crown of dark green foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Genus: | Agathis |
| Botanical Name: | Agathis moorei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot in a sheltered location with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; move outdoors in spring/summer if possible.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage deep roots; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates a range but thrives in moderate temperatures with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during dormant periods.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Avoid overfertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts; fertilize only when actively growing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; seeds are less common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply hormone.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Monitor for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches; pinch back tips for denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape the plant to maintain form; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAgathis moorei is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAgathis moorei is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAgathis moorei is not known to have toxic effects on humans. The plant does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Agathis moorei suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree requiring outdoor space.
Q: How fast does Agathis moorei grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree, taking many years to reach significant height.
Q: What is the wood of Agathis moorei used for?
A: The wood is highly valued for timber, particularly for construction and decorative purposes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araucariaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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