Phyllocladus trichomanoides

Phyllocladus trichomanoides, the tānekaha or celery pine, is a coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand.

Description
Tānekaha is a medium-sized forest tree growing up to 25 m in height and 1 m trunk diameter. The main structural shoots are green-skinned for 2–3 years, then turn brown as the bark thickens. The leaves are sparse, tiny, scale-like, 2–3 mm long, and only green (photosynthetic) for a short time, soon turning brown.

Most photosynthesis is performed by phylloclades, highly modified, leaf-like short shoots; these are arranged alternately, 10-15 on a shoot, the individual phylloclades rhombic, 1.5-2.5 cm long. The seed cones are berry-like, with a fleshy white aril surrounding but not fully enclosing the single seed.

Distribution
In the North Island this species is found in lowland forests from Te Paki to 40°S. In the South Island this species is found in northern Marlborough and Nelson to 41°30'S.

Pests and diseases
This species plays host to the New Zealand endemic beetle Agapanthida morosa.

Economic uses
Like the kauri, tānekaha shed their lower branches, producing smooth straight trunks and knot-free timber which is sought after for its strength.

The bark is rich in tannin, from which Māori extracted a red dye.