Know Your Trees
Know Your Species
Not all conifers are a problem. The Upper Clutha Wilding Tree Group targets those conifers where growth gets out of control in our unique climate and soil conditions.
The most common wilding conifer species in our area are:
Douglas-fir
(Pseudotsuga menziesii)
Our region’s most common wilding conifer with light
wind-blown seeds that travel for many kilometres. Flat, soft needles, pale on underside. Distinctive three-pronged scales on cones.
Radiata Pine
(Pinus radiata)
The most commonly-planted pine in NZ that is often used for forestry. Dark green needles 9-13 cm long. Cones 7-15 cm long.
Contorta/Lodgepole Pine
(Pinus contorta)
Needles dark green to yellow green, 4-7 cm long. Cones 3-6 cm long, their scales end in distinctive, slender prickles. Cones retained on tree. Once established, it’s hard to control.
Black Corsican Pine
(Pinus nigra)
Needles grey-green or bluish-green, grooved on opposing sides of the pair 8-16 cm long (occasionally three needles). Cones 5-8 cm long,
scales end in minute prickles. Cones annually.
European Larch
(Larix decidua)
The most common larch species. Deciduous. Once established, it spreads easily around Wānaka and Hāwea.