Agathis

Salisb., 1807

kauri, dammar

Species Guides

Agathis is a of evergreen coniferous trees comprising approximately 22 , commonly known as kauri or dammar. The genus belongs to the ancient Araucariaceae, which was widespread during the Jurassic period but is now largely restricted to the Southern Hemisphere. Agathis species are characterized by large trunks with minimal lower branching, broad leathery leaves, and commercially valuable timber and resins. The genus is most diverse in Malesia and Australasia, with some species reaching substantial sizes and great age.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Agathis: /əˈɡæθɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Distribution

Native to Australasia and Southeast Asia (Malesia), with occurring in New Caledonia, New Zealand, Australia, and various Pacific islands. The represents one of the few extant Araucariaceae genera with significant Malesian distribution outside the Southern Hemisphere.

Life Cycle

Seeds of some are attacked by caterpillars of Agathiphaga, among the most primitive living . Female seed cones develop on short lateral branchlets and mature after two years. Male pollen cones appear typically only on larger trees after seed cones have developed.

Human Relevance

Historically harvested for kauri gum resin. Timber used for shipbuilding, house construction, furniture, musical instruments (guitars and ukuleles), Go boards, and railway sleepers due to exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and rot resistance. Wood was preferred by Māori for weapons and tools including patu aruhe (fernroot beaters) and barkcloth beaters.