Araucaria-like Podocarp
dacrydium araucarioides
Also known as: ["Araucaria-like Podocarp"]
Overview
A rare coniferous tree native to New Caledonia, characterized by its araucaria-like foliage and slow growth.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus: | Dacrydium |
| Botanical Name: | Dacrydium araucarioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, humid room or sheltered outdoor location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter and filtered light in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with consistent light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F or 10°C) are tolerated in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent indoor temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 6–8 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) 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 outgrow the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; inspect roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use orchid bark for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can slow growth and damage roots; frost can cause leaf necrosis.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDacrydium araucarioides is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been associated with any toxic effects in felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicDacrydium araucarioides is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines following ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDacrydium araucarioides is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dacrydium araucarioides suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation in temperate or subtropical climates.
Q: How fast does Dacrydium araucarioides grow?
A: It is a slow-growing tree, often taking many years to reach significant height.
Q: Where is Dacrydium araucarioides native to?
A: It is native to New Caledonia, where it grows in specific forest habitats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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