Alpine totara - Podocarpus nivalis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Alpine totara

Also known as: Snow totara

This species is a prostrate shrub with spreading branches. It can also be semi-erect and up to 3 m tall. Branches that contact the soil often root. Leaves are thick, rigid and close together. They are arranged spirally, are pointed at the apex and are a brownish green colour when they age.

Scientific classification

Species

Alpine totara (Podocarpus nivalis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Purple

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Alpine totara

Distribution of Alpine totara

Distribution Map

Alpine totara is native to the mountainous regions of the southwestern Pacific, predominantly located in temperate climate zones. It has been successfully introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world, adapting to a broad range of climates beyond its native habitat. The plant thrives in both its natural settings and as an ornamental cultivar in cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Alpine totara

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Alpine totara thrives in alpine zones, requiring watering every two weeks to balance its moisture retention and drought tolerance. As an evergreen, it stays hydrated year-round and adapts well to outdoor conditions with adequate drainage, making it hardy across varying soil types.

Fertilize: To maintain alpine totara's health, apply balanced nutrition fertilizer quarterly from spring to fall, reducing frequency in winter. Use slow-release formulas cautiously to prevent overfertilization. Younger alpine totaras benefit from more feeding, while mature ones need less. Follow label instructions and consider soil testing for accuracy.

Pruning: Alpine totara can be pruned in summer for new growth or in fall for spring benefits, though fall pruning may reduce fruit yield. For a shrubby appearance, trim a third of new growth; for trees, remove lower branches for bark display or lightly prune for hedging.

Propagation: Alpine totara is a resilient alpine shrub from the Podocarpaceae family. Propagation through semi-hardwood cuttings enhances rooting success. Maintain humidity without overwatering and apply rooting hormone in a well-draining medium for healthy roots. Careful monitoring ensures plants reflect the parent plant's characteristics.

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