DESCRIPTION
Podocarpus nivalis, known as snow tōtara, is a low, spreading evergreen conifer with dense foliage. Short, thick leaves sit close along the stems, olive green and often flushed bronze or reddish in cold weather. Branchlets can root where they touch the ground, forming interwoven mats over rocks, banks, and walls.
Native to alpine regions of New Zealand’s North and South Islands, Podocarpus nivalis grows on exposed slopes and rocky grassland. Male pollen cones appear from spring into early summer, followed by fleshy seed-bearing structures that linger on the plant. Its compact habit, foliage color, and tolerance of wind and cold suit rock gardens, troughs, and small landscapes.
DESCRIPTION
Podocarpus nivalis, known as snow tōtara, is a low, spreading evergreen conifer with dense foliage. Short, thick leaves sit close along the stems, olive green and often flushed bronze or reddish in cold weather. Branchlets can root where they touch the ground, forming interwoven mats over rocks, banks, and walls.
Native to alpine regions of New Zealand’s North and South Islands, Podocarpus nivalis grows on exposed slopes and rocky grassland. Male pollen cones appear from spring into early summer, followed by fleshy seed-bearing structures that linger on the plant. Its compact habit, foliage color, and tolerance of wind and cold suit rock gardens, troughs, and small landscapes.