Botanical name:

Fuscospora truncata (nothofagus truncata) 

Common name(s):

Hard beech, tawhairaunui

About:

Hard Beech (F. truncata) grows in a manner similar to that of Red Beech (F. fusca), but it is distinctly characterised by its glossy, shiny-green leaves that reflect light beautifully. Hard Beech features hard bark that is rich in silicone; its common name originates from the fact that its wood possesses a notably high silica content, which contributes to its tough and resilient nature, making it quite difficult to cut. This species grows slowly over the years, ultimately developing into a majestic, buttressed tree that commands attention in the landscape. Once fully established, it demonstrates a remarkable ability to tolerate both dry conditions and strong winds that might challenge other tree species.

Natural habitat: 

Lowland to montane forest.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

North and South Islands of New Zealand; near Mangonui on the North Island to the northern portion of the South Island

Height: 35m

Flowering:  

September – December with a orange or yellow coloured flower/s 

Fruiting:

November - March

Uses: 

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Forests, Fire wood & Shade.

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh seed.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though