Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Tawa Tree

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk, glossy green leaves, and clusters of dark purple fruits that are a vital food source for native birds. Traditionally valued by Māori for its timber and cultural significance, the Tawa Tree is an important part of New Zealand’s natural heritage. It brings elegance, shade, and ecological value to large gardens and landscapes.

A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree) black fruit.
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree) lush, green foliage.
The average plant height is 190cm.

Buy more Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) plants and save - Free Shipping over $150.

Suited to regions:All regions
Plant type:Trees
Height:30.00 m
Spread:15.00 m
Flowering time:
Tolerances:
Garden uses:Parks, Ponds, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles:Alpine, Native
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateSlow
Also known asTawa Tree
Sku10024

How to grow Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) in NZ

To grow Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) in NZ, plant it in a sheltered, sunny to partially shaded position with free draining soil. Tawa prefers fertile, moist soils but will tolerate a range of conditions once established. Water young trees regularly until well rooted, particularly during dry periods. Protect from heavy frosts when young, as it is more cold sensitive early in life. With the right conditions, Beilschmiedia tawa establishes steadily and thrives across much of NZ.

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) care tips

Caring for Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) is straightforward. Mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture, enrich the soil, and suppress weeds. Pruning is rarely needed, though you may remove lower branches if a clear trunk is desired. Tawa is naturally resistant to most pests and diseases, requiring little ongoing care. With time, it develops into a large, stately tree that supports native wildlife and enhances biodiversity in the garden or wider landscape.

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) size, spacing, and growth rate

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) is a large forest tree that can grow 15–25 metres tall with a spread of 8–10 metres. In open spaces, it forms a broad crown, while in forest settings it grows tall and straight. Space trees at least 6–8 metres apart to allow for mature growth. Growth is slow to moderate, especially in the early years, but once established, the Tawa Tree becomes long lived and enduring.

Landscaping uses for Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) is ideal for planting in large gardens, lifestyle blocks, and ecological restoration projects. Its glossy foliage and tall, elegant form provide excellent shade and structure. The fruit attracts native birds such as kererū, enhancing biodiversity in the garden. Beilschmiedia tawa is a striking specimen tree that contributes both beauty and ecological value, making it an excellent choice for naturalistic and native themed NZ landscapes.

Why buy Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) from The Plant Company?

Purchasing Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree) from The Plant Company ensures you receive a strong, healthy tree grown under NZ conditions. As New Zealand’s most trusted plant nursery, we pride ourselves on providing only premium quality plants. Each Beilschmiedia tawa is carefully nurtured and packaged to arrive safely. With expert advice and fast nationwide delivery, The Plant Company is your best source for adding the iconic Tawa Tree to your property or restoration project.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)? We are here to help.

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire) trees growing in a modern garden.
Most Popular

Beilschmiedia tarairi (Taraire)

Beilschmiedia tarairi, commonly known as the Taraire tree, is a unique, NZ native tree. Its prominent feature is the masses of olive-like, purple...

From$299.92
Lagerstroemia 'Soir D'Ete' pink flowers on a shrub.
Most Popular

Lagerstroemia 'Soir D Ete'

Lagerstroemia ‘Soir D Ete’ is a refined crepe myrtle producing elegant soft mauve pink flowers through the height of summer. This attractive variety...

From$29.63
acer-trompenburg-
Most Popular

Acer palmatum 'Trompenburg'

Acer palmatum 'Trompenburg' is a striking Japanese Maple admired for its deeply cut rich purple red foliage and distinctive curled leaf edges. The...

From$450.68
malus-jack-humm-3
Most Popular

Malus Jack Humm

Malus Jack Humm is a variety of Crabapple that bears masses of crimson buds that open into showy, single, white flowers in spring with a hint of...

From$343.89
Sophora fulvida tree with masses of yellow flowers.
Most Popular

Sophora fulvida

Sophora fulvida (Southern Kōwhai) is a beautiful New Zealand native tree admired for its golden yellow flowers and fine green foliage. Flowering in...

From$457.29
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.9

429 Google reviews