The Totara reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004
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Totara

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Totara
Scientific classification
Kingdom:Plantae
Division:Pinophyta
Class:Pinopsida
Order:Pinales
Family:Podocarpaceae
Genus:Podocarpus
Species:totara

The Totara (Podocarpus totara) is a species of tree endemic to New Zealand. It grows throughout the North and South Islands.

The Totara is a medium to large tree which grows to around 20-25 m, exceptionally to 35 m. The wood is hard and straight grained and very resistant to rot. Due to its durability, Totara wood was often used for fence posts and floor pilings.

image:totarabark_large.jpg
Close-up of Totara bark.