Homework Challenges: Rimu Tree

Rimu Tree

The Rimu tree, also known incorrectly as "red pine," is one of many conifers with a distribution only within the Southern Hemisphere. Millions of years ago there was an ancient and large continent called Gondwana, which eventually broke up to form Antarctica, Australia, New Zealand, South America and Africa. Many plants from this old land can now be found in various places on these continents, except of course for Antarctica. One of New Zealand's most beautiful and useful trees, its straight, tapering trunk is clearly distinguishable from its native contemporaries, towering at heights of up to 50m with a diameter of some 2m at maximum growth cycle. It is easily recognised by its spreading crown and pendulous branchlets, and in natural stands maturity is reached in approximately 300 years, however the actual life-span can range between 800 - 900 years. The Rimu is a true rainforest tree and in some environments is the main canopy tree, while in others, more scattered and irregualrly placed as an emergent tree from the existing forest line. Rimu was formerly abundant in lowland and hilly forests throughout the North, South & Stewart islands, from sea level up to 600m. Main standing reserves are on the West coast of the South Island. The bark is dark greyish-brown and sheds in irregular flakes leaving a wave pattern on the main trunk.