PODOCARPUS TOTARA Meaning and
Definition
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Podocarpus totara, commonly known as totara, is a large evergreen coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand. It is part of the Podocarpaceae family, which includes various species of conifers. The tree is known for its impressive size, with mature specimens typically reaching heights of 20 to 30 meters (66 to 98 feet) tall, although some individuals can grow even taller.
The totara tree features dark green, needle-shaped leaves that are arranged spirally on its branches. These leaves have a glossy appearance and emit a sweet, resinous fragrance when crushed. The tree's bark is reddish-brown and has a rough texture, often peeling in thin flakes.
Totara is considered a long-lived species, with some trees known to live for over 1,000 years. It has a broad, pyramidal form and produces small red berries that are highly attractive to birds. The tree typically grows in a range of habitats, from lowland forests to montane regions, and can tolerate a variety of soil conditions.
Due to its durability and resistance to decay, totara timber has been widely used by the indigenous Māori people for centuries in the construction of canoes, carvings, and buildings. Today, it remains a valued timber species for decorative and structural purposes. In addition, the totara tree holds cultural and spiritual significance to the Māori communities and is often regarded as a symbol of strength and endurance.
Common Misspellings for PODOCARPUS TOTARA
- oodocarpus totara
- lodocarpus totara
- -odocarpus totara
- 0odocarpus totara
- pidocarpus totara
- pkdocarpus totara
- pldocarpus totara
- ppdocarpus totara
- p0docarpus totara
- p9docarpus totara
- posocarpus totara
- poxocarpus totara
- pococarpus totara
- pofocarpus totara
- porocarpus totara
- poeocarpus totara
- podicarpus totara
- podkcarpus totara
- podlcarpus totara
Etymology of PODOCARPUS TOTARA
The word "Podocarpus totara" has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin.
1. Podocarpus: The genus name "Podocarpus" comes from the Greek words "podos" (meaning "foot") and "karpos" (meaning "fruit"). This name refers to the structure of the cones that resemble feet, as well as the fleshy fruits borne on the trees.
2. Totara: The species name "Totara" originates from the Maori language, which is spoken by the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand. It refers to the specific species Podocarpus totara, commonly known as "totara". The meaning of "totara" in Maori is related to the tree's prominent role in their culture and its heritage value.
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