About
Podocarpus nivalis, the mountain totara, is a rounded, wide, dense, evergreen conifer to around 2 m with tough, narrow, dark-green leaves. Red, fleshy fruits 6 mm long are borne on female plants. An excellent, low-growing, reliable podocarp for a rock garden or sheltered, well-drained border.
About the genus
Podocarpus are evergreen shrubs or trees with spirally arranged, often two-ranked, linear or lance-shaped leaves and fleshy, plum-shaped fruits on female plants. A large genus of conifers from the Southern Hemisphere, grown as ornamental specimen plants.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toNew Zealand
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in rich, moist soil that contains plenty of organic matter. Enjoys shelter from drying, cold winds
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed as soon as ripe. Sow in spring in an open frame. Germination can take up to 18 months. Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings from upright shoots in late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free