Totara Tree & Podocarpus Information For NZ

New Zealand Totara Tree Information

There is a wealth of information about Totara trees and The Plant Company is often asked specific questions which we have laid out in this section.

Are Totara Trees Protected?

Totara trees are generally protected in New Zealand. Their ecological importance is recognised and they are included among species with regulations on felling or pruning. However, the level of protection can vary depending on the specific circumstances:

• Location: Totara on the Hauraki Gulf islands have stricter vegetation clearance rules.
• Land ownership: While most native totara are protected, planted ones on private property might be allowed for harvest with proper permits.
• Tree significance: Totara with historical or cultural importance often have additional protections.

To definitively determine if you can cut down a totara tree, it's best to contact your local council. They'll be able to advise on specific regulations in your area.

Can I Cut Down A Totara Tree?

In New Zealand, Totara trees are generally protected due to their ecological significance. Here are some things to consider before cutting one down:

• Is the Totara planted or native? Planted Totara may be harvested for timber with permission, but native Totara are most likely protected.
• Is the Totara part of a protected area? Totara in significant ecological areas or near waterways often have additional protections.
• Is the Totara a notable tree? Trees with historical or cultural significance are likely protected.

The best way to find out if you can cut down a Totara tree is to check with your local council. They can advise you on any specific rules or regulations in your area. You can find your council's contact information online or by calling them directly.

Golden Totara Information

Golden totara, also known as Podocarpus totara 'Aurea', is a beautiful cultivar of the totara tree. It's prized for its striking golden foliage and a few other key characteristics:

• The most distinctive feature is the bright golden-yellow foliage. The leaves are needle-like, similar to the green leaves of the regular totara, but with a vibrant golden hue. The leaf colour can vary somewhat throughout the year, appearing lighter green in spring and deepening to a richer golden yellow in winter.
• The golden totara typically has a pyramidal or columnar growth habit, forming a narrower and more upright shape compared to the broader crown of the regular totara.
• SizeThey are generally smaller and slower-growing than the regular totara, reaching a mature height of around 5-10 metres (16-33 feet) with a width of 2.5-3 metres (8-10 feet).
• Uses:
• The golden totara is a popular choice as a specimen tree in gardens. It also makes for a wonderful and colourful hedge.
• Golden totara thrives in full sun on a well-drained soil. It can tolerate moderate drought once established but should be regularly watered during its first year after planting.
• Pruning can be done to maintain shape and size, but it generally requires minimal maintenance.

Overall, the Golden Totara is a fascinating cultivar that offers a unique twist on the classic totara tree. Its vibrant golden foliage adds a touch of elegance and makes it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes.

How Do Totara Reproduce?

Totara trees reproduce using cones on separate male and female trees. Male cones are smaller and grow in clusters on the branches of male trees. They produce pollen grains for fertilisation. Female cones are larger and solitary on female trees. They contain ovules that will develop into seeds when fertilised. Wind carries pollen grains from male cones to the female cones, typically occurring in autumn. If a pollen grain lands on a receptive female cone, it fertilises an ovule which develops into a single seed. Seed formation takes about a year. The female cone of a totara becomes fleshy and berry-like as the seed matures. This red, fleshy "fruit" ripens in autumn and attracts birds. They eat the fleshy fruit and disperse the seeds within the fruit in their droppings, helping totara establish new trees in different areas.

How Do You Identify A Totara Tree?

A totara tree as some key features to help with identifying one:

• The bark is red-grey with a rough, textured surface. It is thick and corky, often deeply furrowed with long strips that peel off in papery flakes.
• The leaves are tiny, stiff, and needle-like. They are brown-green. NB: Leaves on juvenile trees are around 2 cm long, while those on adult trees are 1.5-3 cm long and 3-4 mm wide.
• It is a medium to large tree that can reach 20-25 metres tall with a trunk diameter of up to 2-3 metres.
• It grows with a stout trunk with thick branches that can be erect or spreading.
• Male trees produce pollen cones, while females produce red, fleshy, berry-like fruit when mature.

How To Collect Totara Seed

Look for ripe totara fruit in autumn. They turn bright red and become fleshy when they are ripe. Choose plump, undamaged fruit and remove the fleshy fruit from the seed. There is a single seed per fruit and it is easily squeezed out. The seed is then gently washed and allowed to dry in the sun or a paper towel for 1-2 days. Store the seeds in a paper bag in a cool and dry place with low humidity.

How To Grow Totara Seed

Propagating Totara from seed is possible, but it requires patience as they are slow to germinate and take a long time to reach maturity. The steps to getting them to grow are as follows:

• Soak fresh seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours to help soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.
• Sow the seeds at a depth of about twice their width (around 1-2 cm deep) in seed-raising media.
• Lightly cover the seeds with the potting mix or vermiculite and firm gently.
• Water the media and then place the pot in a warm position with indirect sunlight.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not sodden.
• Germination can be slow and erratic, taking several months at times.
• Once seedlings emerge, provide them with good light, ventilation, and do not let them dry out.
• You can repot seedlings into individual containers when they reach a manageable size (around 5-10 cm tall).

Remember, growing totara from seed is a long-term project. If you're looking for a faster option, propagating totara from cuttings might be a better choice.

Is Totara A Maori Tree?

Totara (Podocarpus totara) isn't technically a "Māori tree" in the sense that it didn't originate from selective breeding or cultivation by Māori people. However, totara holds immense significance in Māori culture and has been a cornerstone of their way of life for centuries.

Totara Tree Detailed Description

Totara trees (Podocarpus totara) are a majestic, slow-growing conifer tree that is endemic to New Zealand. They are for their durability, cultural significance, and ecological importance. A detailed description includes:

• Size and Appearance: Totara is a medium to large tree, typically reaching heights of 20 to 25 metres (65 to 80 feet) with a trunk diameter of 2 to 3 metres (6.5 to 10 feet). Exceptional specimens can reach up to 35 meters (115 feet) or more in height. The tree has a stout trunk with thick, corky, and furrowed red-grey bark that peels off in papery flakes. Its branches are stout and can be erect or spreading.
• Leaves: The leaves are brown-green, stiff, leathery, and needle-like. Juvenile leaves are smaller, around 2 cm long, while adult leaves can grow up to 15-30 mm long and 3-4 mm wide.
• Flowers and Fruit: Totara trees are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female trees. Male trees produce pollen cones, while female trees produce modified cones that develop into bright red, fleshy, berry-like fruit when mature. These fruits are a food source for native birds such as Kereru and Tui.
• Growth Rate: Totara trees are considered relatively fast-growing for their lifespan, which can reach up to 1,000 years. Under ideal conditions, they can grow up to 50 cm in height and 1 cm in diameter each year. However, average growth rates are typically slower, around 10-50 cm in height and 1 cm in diameter annually.
• Habitat: Totara trees are found throughout New Zealand. They thrive in lowland, montane, and lower subalpine forests at elevations up to 600 meters. They prefer well-drained fertile soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, from coastal areas to inland forests.
• Significance: The wood from Totara trees is prized for its exceptional durability and resistance to rot and insects. Maori traditionally used it for building waka (canoes), houses, carvings, tools, and storage containers. Totara trees also play a vital role in the New Zealand ecosystem, providing habitat for native fauna and contributing to healthy soil conditions. Due to its cultural and ecological importance, they are generally protected in New Zealand.

Totara Tree Facts

Some Totara tree facts:

• Medium to large tree, reaching heights of 20-25 metres (65-80 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 2-3 metres (6.5-10 feet).
• Red-grey bark that has a rough and textured surface with long strips that peel off as papery flakes.
• The tiny leaves are stiff, needle-like, and brown-green.
• Seedlings have a spiral leaf arrangement, while mature trees have a two-ranked (distichous) pattern on main branches.
• Dioecious - separate male and female trees that are wind-pollinated.
• Red, fleshy, berry-like fruit produced by female trees. Birds eat the fruit and disperse the seeds.
• Endemic to New Zealand (except Stewart Island) and found in lowland, montane, and lower subalpine forests.
• Culturally significant to Māori people (considered a taonga or treasure). The wood is prized for its durability and resistance to rot and insects. It was used for waka, houses, and carvings.
• Totara trees are generally protected in New Zealand.
• Slow-growing but long-lived, with lifespans reaching up to 1,000 years.
• Totarol, a compound extracted from totara heartwood, shows potential health benefits in lab studies (antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant).

What Are The Healing Properties Of Totara?

While Totara has a rich history of cultural use by Māori people, the scientific evidence for its medicinal properties is still being explored:

• Traditional Uses: Māori used totara for a variety of ailments, including treating skin conditions like eczema, rashes, and boils. Smoke from totara wood was used for treating haemorrhoids and venereal diseases. The inner bark was used to make a sweet liquid to treat fevers, and an infusion of the bitter leaves was used for upset stomachs.
• Modern Research: The active compound in totara responsible for potential health benefits is called totarol. Totarol has shown promise in lab studies for its:
  • Antibacterial properties: Effective against some gram-positive and negative bacteria, including some antibiotic-resistant strains.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties: May be helpful for reducing inflammation associated with skin conditions.
  • Antioxidant properties: May help protect cells from damage.
• While totarol shows promise in lab studies, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in humans for medicinal purposes.

What Is A Totara In Māori?

In Māori, "totara" refers to the same tree as the scientific name Podocarpus totara – a large forest tree. The word itself likely originates from the combination of two Māori words:

• Tara: Meaning "spike" or "thorn," referencing the spiky leaves of the totara tree.
• Tō: Possibly indicating the tree's height or stature.

What Is Special About The Totara Tree?

Totara trees are special for a number of reasons, both ecologically and culturally:

• Durability: The wood, in particular the heartwood, is incredibly resistant to rot and insects. It was historically used by Māori for building waka (canoes), houses, and other structures meant to last.
• Longevity: Totara trees are known for their impressive lifespans. Some specimens can live for over 1,000 years, making them some of the oldest trees in New Zealand.
• Cultural Significance: Totara holds a special place in Māori culture. It's seen as a taonga (treasure) and is associated with strength, leadership, and longevity. Its wood was traditionally used for carvings, tools, and storage containers.
• Ecological Importance: Totara trees play a vital role in the New Zealand ecosystem. They provide habitat for native birds and insects, and their fruit is a food source for species like kereru and tui. Their presence also helps to maintain healthy soil conditions.
• Adaptability: Totara can thrive in a variety of conditions, from coastal areas to inland forests. This adaptability has allowed them to persist for centuries despite changes in the environment.

Overall, the Totara tree is a remarkable species with a rich history and ongoing ecological importance in New Zealand.

What Is The Leaf Arrangement Of Totara?

The leaf arrangement of totara trees depends on their age and location on the branch. Totara seedlings (a few months old) have leaves arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. As the totara matures, the leaf arrangement on the main branches transition to a more two-ranked or distichous pattern. This means the leaves appear in two more or less opposite rows on either side of the flattened branch. Some mature totara branches might retain a more spiral-like leaf arrangement, particularly on less vigorous branches.

What Is Totara Wood Used For?

Totara wood is prized for its exceptional qualities, making it a valuable resource with a range of traditional and modern applications:

Traditional Maori Uses:

• Waka (canoes): Its durability and resistance to rot made it ideal for building waka, allowing Māori to navigate vast distances and establish settlements across New Zealand.
• Houses and buildings: Totara's strength and weather resistance made it a preferred material for building houses, pā (fortifications), and other structures.
• Carvings and tools: The wood's fine grain allowed for intricate carvings, used for weapons, tools, utensils, and decorative taonga (treasured objects).
• Storage containers: Totara's resistance to rot and insects made it perfect for storing food and other valuables.

Modern Uses:

• Interior joinery: The beautiful grain and workability make it a sought-after material for doors, windows, stairs, and other interior features.
• Furniture: High-quality furniture pieces can be crafted from totara, showcasing its natural beauty and durability.
• Veneer panels: Thin slices of totara wood can be used to create decorative veneers for furniture and other applications.
• Exterior applications (treated): When properly treated, totara can be used for some exterior applications, such as cladding and posts, due to its inherent weather resistance.

What Is Totarol?

Totarol is a naturally occurring diterpene, a type of organic molecule found in plants. It's the key bioactive compound extracted from the heartwood of the totara tree (Podocarpus totara). Totarol has gained interest for its potential health benefits and other properties:

• Antibacterial: Totarol shows promise against various bacteria, including some gram-positive and gram-negative strains, even some antibiotic-resistant ones.
• Anti-inflammatory: Studies suggest it might help reduce inflammation associated with skin conditions.
• Antioxidant: Totarol may have antioxidant properties, potentially protecting cells from damage.

Where Are Totara Trees Found Naturally In NZ?

Totara trees are naturally found throughout most of New Zealand, with the exception of Stewart Island. They were once abundant in lowland forests across the North Island. Unfortunately, human activity has significantly reduced their numbers in some areas. Similar to the North Island, totara were historically widespread in lowland and montane forests of the South Island but can still be found in various regions.

Planting And Growing Tōtara Trees & Podocarpus In NZ

Planting Tōtara and other Podocarpus trees and getting them to grow well is generally easy when you get a few of the basics right. This involves planting them in the right soil type, choosing the most ideal planting position, and ensuring the plants have the essentials to thrive. The Plant Company has the right advice to ensure success!

How Do You Plant A Tōtara Tree?

Choose a full sun position or partial shade position with good drainage for your Totara tree. The hole should be dug to at least 50-75% deeper and wider than the container the plant is currently growing in. A planting spade makes the hole digging a lot easier. The Plant Company recommends incorporating compost or sheep pellets into the soil to provide additional organic material, but this is not essential. Do not put fertiliser in the bottom of the hole, rather spread that on the soil surface after planting, and preferably do this when the plant is actively growing in spring.

Remove the plant from the container it is growing in by either pulling it free or by cutting the bag. We recommend cutting the bag, especially for larger grade plants, to minimise any chance of damaging the roots. If the roots are bound up, you can tease them apart if you want but this is not essential. The Plant Company does not advise cutting through roots, even if the plant is rootbound, as that injures the plant.

Now place the plant in the hole and make sure it is level with the soil surface before filling in around it. If it is above the soil surface, dig more out. If it is below, put in more soil and retest the level. Once the plant is set level with the soil surface, add more soil gradually and firm it around the plant using gentle pressure as you go. Scatter Native Plant Fertiliser across the soil surface after planting and then give the plant a good watering.

How Fast Does A Totara Tree Grow?

The growth rate of a totara tree depends on several factors, but they can be considered relatively fast growers for long-living trees. In fertile sites with good management, they can grow 50 cm in height per year. More typical growth rates are 10-50 cm in height and up to 1 cm in diameter annually. On poorer and less fertile sites they tend to grow 70% slower than on better sites.

How Tall Does A Totara Tree Grow?

Totara trees can reach an average height of 20 to 25 metres (65-80 feet) with some specimens exceeding that. The record for the tallest known living totara is the Pouakani Tree, reaching over 35 metres (115 feet) tall.

Where Is The Best Place To Plant A Totara Tree?

The best place to plant a totara tree depends on several factors, considering both the tree's needs and potential impact on the surrounding environment. Some key things to keep in mind:

• Totara prefer full sun and thrive in well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged areas, as they can cause root rot and the tree to fail.
• Mature trees can reach 25 meters tall, therefore choose a location with ample space, whilst also keeping away from buildings and power lines.
• While totara are somewhat wind-tolerant, young trees might benefit from some shelter from strong winds, especially in coastal areas.
• Ideally, plant totara in areas where they can complement the existing native flora.
• Some good options for planting totara include:
  • Large gardens as a specimen tree.
  • Native planting projects.
  • Totara can be used in shelterbelts.

Podocarpus General Information

There is a wealth of information about Podocarpus and The Plant Company is often asked specific questions which we have laid out in this section.

Are Podocarpus Native To Australia?

There are several species of Podocarpus native to Australia. The most common species are:

• Podocarpus elatus, also known as the plum pine, the brown pine, the Illawarra plum, or the Queensland Christmas tree, is a tall tree found in eastern New South Wales and eastern Queensland.
• Podocarpus lawrencei, also known as the mountain plum pine, is a shrubby tree found in the alpine regions of southeastern Australia, including Tasmania.
• Podocarpus drouynianus, also known as the emu berry, the wild plum, or the native plum, is a shrub or small tree found in the southwestern corner of Western Australia.
• Podocarpus spinulosus, also known as the spiny-leaved podocarp, is a shrub or small tree found in the northeastern corner of Queensland.

These species are all found in rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest habitats. They are an important part of the Australian flora and provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Are Podocarpus Native To NZ?

Podocarpus are native to New Zealand. Of the five species that are native to New Zealand, they are all evergreen trees or shrubs. The most common species is the tōtara (Podocarpus totara), which is a large tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. Other native species include the Hall's totara (Podocarpus hallii), the mountain totara (Podocarpus nivalis), and the silver totara (Podocarpus cunninghamii).

Is Podocarpus The Same As Japanese Yew?

Podocarpus and Japanese Yew are both members of the conifer family, Pinaceae. However, they are two distinct genera with different characteristics.

• Podocarpus is a genus of about 100 species of evergreen trees and shrubs native to the Southern Hemisphere. They are typically found in temperate and subtropical regions, with some species extending into tropical areas. Podocarpus trees are known for their attractive foliage, which can be either needle-like or scale-like. They are also relatively fast-growing and can tolerate a wide range of soil and climate conditions.
• Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata) is a species of evergreen conifer native to Japan, Korea, and northeastern China. It is a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world, valued for its pyramidal shape, soft texture, and tolerance for shade. Japanese yews are typically slow-growing and can live for hundreds of years.

Podocarpus Database - The Plant Company

The list of Podocarpus that The Plant Company has worked on, propagated, and marketed is extensive. Our database of Podocarpus varieties is listed below:

• Podocarpus 'Ardmore Green'
• Podocarpus cunninghamii
• Podocarpus drouynianus
• Podocarpus elatus
• Podocarpus gracilior
• Podocarpus hallii
• Podocarpus henkelii
• Podocarpus laetus
• Podocarpus lawrencei
• Podocarpus macrophyllus
• Podocarpus 'Maki'
• Podocarpus 'Matapouri Blue'
• Podocarpus nivalis
• Podocarpus parlatorei
• Podocarpus spinulosus
• Podocarpus totara
• Podocarpus totara 'Aurea'

Podocarpus Drouynianus Information

Podocarpus drouynianus, commonly known as emu berry, wild plum, or native plum is a species of podocarp native to the relatively high rainfall southwestern corner of Western Australia. It is a shrubby plant that typically grows to a height of 75cm to 3 metres (2 to 10 ft) and a few metres wide. Some further characteristics include:

• It is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants, and is very slow-growing. The bark is thin and fibrous, green in colour turning red-brown on the outside. The leaves are needle-like, 4 to 8 cm long, sharply pointed, and green. The cones are berry-like, with a fleshy, edible purple section.
• The emu berry grows in the understorey of forests dominated by Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) and Karri (E. diversicolor). These forests are relatively moist, generally receiving more than 600 mm of rain per year.
• The purple fruit of the emu berry was traditionally eaten by the Noongar people of southwestern Australia. The Noongar name for the plant is koolah and is a source of vitamin C and can be eaten fresh or dried. The plant is also used in traditional medicine.
• Podocarpus drouynianus is not commonly cultivated, but it can be grown in frost-free areas with well-drained soil. It is a slow-growing plant that requires little maintenance.

Podocarpus Gracilior Information

Podocarpus gracilior, commonly known as the African fern pine, East African yellowwood, or bastard yellowwood, is a medium-sized, slow-growing coniferous evergreen tree native to eastern Africa. It belongs to the Podocarpaceae family. Some of its key characteristics include:

• Podocarpus gracilior is a medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of 20 to 25 metres (65 to 80 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 1 metre (3 feet). Exceptional specimens can grow up to 35 metres (115 feet) or more in height.
• The tree has a stout trunk with thick, rigid branches that are initially upright and become more pendulous as the tree matures. The fern-like foliage is its most distinctive feature.
• Podocarpus gracilior is known for its soft, weeping, deep green foliage. The leaves are narrow, about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) wide and 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) long, and resemble fern fronds. They are arranged in flattened sprays along the branches, creating a graceful and cascading effect.
• Podocarpus gracilior have separate male and female trees. Male trees produce pollen cones, while female trees produce small, greenish-yellow to purple, plum-like cones that mature into fleshy fruits. These fruits are a food source for birds.
• It is considered relatively a fast-growing tree for its lifespan, which can be up to 1,000 years. Under ideal conditions, they can grow up to 50 cm (20 inches) in height and 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter each year. However, average growth rates are typically slower, around 10-50 cm (4-20 inches) in height and up to 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter annually.
• The trees thrive in Afromontane habitats, which are mountain forests in Africa characterized by a cool and moist climate. They are typically found at elevations of 1,500 to 3,000 metres (4,900 to 9,800 feet) above sea level.
• Podocarpus gracilior is a valuable tree with several uses:
  • Ornamental Tree: Due to its attractive foliage and cascading growth habit, it is a popular choice for landscaping and is often used as an specimen tree, hedge, or screen.
  • Timber: The wood of Podocarpus gracilior is strong, durable, and resistant to rot and insects. However, due to its slow growth rate, it is not widely used for commercial timber production.
  • Medicinal Uses: In some regions, traditional medicine uses extracts from the bark or leaves for various ailments. However, more scientific research is needed to verify these uses.
• Podocarpus gracilior prefers cool, moist climates with well-drained slightly acidic soil. It is relatively tolerant of drought once established but does best with regular watering, especially during dry periods. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and can withstand moderate frost.
• It is generally resistant to serious pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases in poorly drained conditions.

Overall, Podocarpus gracilior is a beautiful and versatile tree that can be a valuable addition to landscapes in suitable climates. With its attractive foliage, tolerance for various conditions, and relatively low maintenance requirements, it can be a great choice for homeowners or landscapers looking for an elegant and interesting tree.

Podocarpus Henkelii Information

Podocarpus henkelii, commonly known as Henkel's Yellowwood or Yellowwood, is a majestic coniferous evergreen tree native to South Africa. It's a popular ornamental choice due to its striking appearance and is also culturally significant in its native habitat. Some of its key characteristics include:

• It is a large tree, reaching heights of 12-30 metres (40-100 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5-2 metres (5-6.5 feet). Exceptional specimens can grow even taller.
• It typically grows with a tall, pyramidal to rounded crown with long, pendent (drooping) branches. This creates a graceful and weeping silhouette.
• The bark is red-brown to grey, with a slightly fissured (cracked) surface that becomes more furrowed with age.
• The leaves are dark green, dense and lush. They are narrow, needle-like, glossy, and around 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 inches) long and 2-3 mm (0.1 inches) wide.
• Henkel's Yellowwood has separate male and female trees which are wind-pollinated.
• After fertilization, female trees produce fleshy, spherical drupes (fruit) about 2 cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. These turn green to blue-black when mature and are attractive to birds who disperse the seeds within the fruit.
• It thrives in moist, well-drained soils in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along watercourses.
• It is grown worldwide for its attractive form and foliage, which adds an elegant touch to landscapes as a specimen tree, screen, or windbreak.
• Henkel's yellowwood holds cultural importance in South Africa, particularly for the Zulu people who traditionally used its wood for crafting weapons and utensils.
• It prefers a warm temperate to subtropical climate with mild winters and cool summers. Can tolerate some frost, but prolonged freezing temperatures can damage the tree.
• It grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It grows best on a well-drained, fertile soil with moderate moisture.
• It is relatively low maintenance and only younger trees need watering as they establish. Pruning can be done to maintain shape and size if desired.

Podocarpus henkelii is a beautiful and versatile tree with a rich history. If you're looking for an elegant and low-maintenance evergreen for your landscape in a suitable climate, Henkel's yellowwood could be a great choice.

Podocarpus Macrophyllus Information

Podocarpus macrophyllus, also known as the Japanese yew pine, Buddhist pine, fern pine, is a coniferous evergreen tree native to southern Japan and southern and eastern China. It's a popular ornamental tree prized for its dense foliage and adaptability to various growing conditions. Here's a closer look at this tree:

• It is a medium-sized tree, reaching heights of 15-20 metres (50-66 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 1 metre (3 feet).
• It grows with an upright to spreading habit and can be trained into different shapes through pruning.
• The bark is grey-red-brown with a rough, textured surface that flakes off in long strips.
• The leaves are 6-12 cm (2.4-4.7 in) long and about 1 cm (0.4 in) wide. They are deep green and glossy, with a central midrib, and arranged spirally on young trees, transitioning to a two-ranked pattern on mature branches.
• It has separate male and female trees that are wind-pollinated: Pollen from male cones fertilizes the female cones.
• Female trees produce fleshy, globose fruits about 1 cm (0.4 in) long. Initially green, they mature to a reddish-purple and resemble berries. These fruits are attractive to birds who disperse the seeds within the fruit.
• It is found natureally in forests, open thickets, and roadsides from near sea level to 1000 meters (3300 feet).
• It is a widely grown tree due to its dense, evergreen foliage and is often grown as a specimen tree, hedge, trimmed into topiary, or used for bonsai.
• It grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It grows best on a well-drained, fertile soil with moderate moisture.
• It is relatively low maintenance and only younger trees need watering as they establish. Pruning can be done to maintain shape and size if desired.
• A popular cultivar is Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki'. It has a more strongly columnar growth habit and even denser foliage, making it ideal for hedges.

Overall, Podocarpus macrophyllus is a versatile and attractive evergreen tree with a rich history. Its adaptability to various climates and its tolerance for pruning make it a valuable option for landscapers and home gardeners alike.

Podocarpus Maki Information

Podocarpus maki, also known as Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Maki' or simply Japanese Yew Pine 'Maki', is a popular cultivar of the Podocarpus macrophyllus species. It inherits many of the desirable characteristics of the parent species but with a specific growth habit that makes it even more valuable for landscaping purposes. Some of it key features include:

• It gGrows to a mature height of 8-10 metres (26-33 feet) with a width of 2-4 metres (6-13 feet).
• It grows with a narrow, upright shape with densely packed branches.
• The leaves are 6-12 cm long, about 1 cm wide, are deep green and glossy, with a central midrib. They are arranged spirally on young trees, transitioning to a two-ranked pattern on mature branches.
• The bark is grey-red-brown with a rough, textured surface that flakes off in strips.
• Podocarpus maki's dense, columnar form and tolerance for pruning make it an ideal choice for creating formal hedges. It is also grown as a specimen tree and can also be maintained in a container.
• It grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. It grows best on a well-drained, fertile soil with moderate moisture.
• It is relatively low maintenance and only younger trees need watering as they establish. Pruning can be done to maintain shape and size if desired.

Podocarpus 'Maki' is a valuable cultivar that is prized for its dense, columnar form. This makes it a popular choice for hedges and landscaping features where a space-saving, upright evergreen tree is desired.

Podocarpus Nivalis Information

Podocarpus nivalis, commonly known as the snow totara, mountain totara, or snow pine, is a fascinating coniferous tree endemic to New Zealand. It holds cultural significance for Māori people and offers unique characteristics for gardens and landscapes. Some of its key characteristics include:

• It ranges from a prostrate shrub with wide-spreading branches to a small bush or even a medium-sized tree depending on the growing conditions. It typically reaches heights of 1.5-5 meters (5-16 feet) with a sprawling growth habit.
• The bark is red-grey with a rough, textured surface. It often flakes off in papery strips, revealing a reddish inner layer.
• The leaves are densely spaced and spirally arranged (especially on young trees), maturing to a two-ranked pattern on main branches. They are tiny, stiff, needle-like, brown-green in colour, and around 5-15 mm (0.2-0.6 inches) long and 2-4 mm (0.1-0.2 inches) wide.
• It has separate male and female trees which are wind-pollinated. After fertilization, female trees produce red and fleshy, berry-like fruit about 1 cm (0.4 inches) in diameter. These mature in autumn and are attractive to birds who disperse the seeds within the fruit.
• It is endemic to New Zealand and is found in both the North and South Islands, from lowland forests to subalpine areas. It can grow at high altitudes, hence the name "snow totara."
• Māori people consider this Podocarpus as a taonga or treasure as they traditionally used it for food, medicine, and various tools and crafts.
• It prefers cool, temperate climates, and tolerates frost and colder temperatures. It grows best in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
• It thrives in well-drained, moist, fertile soil and is relatively low-maintenance. Occasional watering during extended dry periods is beneficial and it requires pruning for shaping only.

Podocarpus nivalis is a unique and valuable tree native to New Zealand. Its adaptability to various light conditions and its tolerance for colder temperatures make it a good choice for gardens in suitable climates.

What Are The Common Names For Podocarpus?

Podocarpus has many nicknames depending on the region or species:

• Totara: This is the most common nickname for Podocarpus in New Zealand. It is derived from the Māori language, where "totara" refers to the Podocarpus totara species.
• Plum pine: This nickname is used for some Podocarpus species that have plum-shaped fruits.
• Vegetable ivory: This nickname is used for Podocarpus species that have hard, white seeds that can be carved into ornaments.
• Yellow wood: This nickname is used for Podocarpus species that have yellow wood.
• Brown pine: This nickname is used for Podocarpus species that have brown wood.
• African holly: This nickname is used for Podocarpus milanjianus, which is found in Africa.
• Māori pine: This nickname is used for Podocarpus totara and Podocarpus hallii, which are both found in New Zealand.
• Southern yew: This nickname is used for some Podocarpus species that are found in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Chinese yew: This nickname is used for Podocarpus macrophyllus, which is found in China.
• Japanese yew: This nickname is used for Podocarpus brevibrachylatus, which is found in Japan.

In addition to these nicknames, Podocarpus is also sometimes called by its scientific name or by the common name "conifer."

What Do Podocarpus Symbolise?

Podocarpus trees have a long history of symbolic meaning in various cultures. They are often associated with strength, longevity, wisdom, and spirituality.

• Strength and Longevity: Podocarpus trees are known for their durability and resilience. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and live for hundreds of years. This makes them a symbol of strength, endurance, and the ability to overcome adversity.
• Wisdom and Spirituality: Podocarpus trees are also associated with wisdom and spirituality. Their slow and steady growth is seen as a reminder of the importance of patience and perseverance. Additionally, their evergreen foliage is seen as a symbol of immortality and the eternal spirit.
• In New Zealand, Podocarpus trees are considered sacred by Māori. They are known as "totara" and are associated with chiefs and leadership. Totara trees are used for carving and woodworking, and their timber is highly valued.
• In Japan, Podocarpus trees are known as "yamamomiji" and are associated with autumn and the changing seasons. They are also seen as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Overall, Podocarpus trees are seen as symbols of strength, longevity, wisdom, and spirituality. They are valued for their beauty, resilience, and cultural significance.

Which Podocarpus Makes The Best Hedge?

The best Podocarpus for making a hedge is Podocarpus gracilior, also known as the African fern pine. It's a versatile shrub that can be shaped into a variety of forms, including formal hedges, informal screens, and topiaries. It's also relatively low-maintenance, making it a good choice for busy gardeners. It has soft, green needles, and is a fast-grower. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils and conditions and is relatively resistant to pests and diseases.