Podocarpus nivalis aka Alpine Totara
Taxonomy
Podocarpus nivalis, also known as the mountain or snow tōtara, is an endemic species of conifer in the family Podocarpaceae found exclusively in New Zealand. This slow-growing dwarf conifer reaches a height of around 60cm and has a branching habit, with dense foliage consisting of small green yew-like leaves that feature cream-colored margins. When young, the new leaves of the Podocarpus nivalis are tinged with pink. As a houseplant, the Alpine Totara, as it is commonly called, requires regular watering to thrive and thrives best when exposed to abundant sunlight within 3 feet of a window. It prefers well-draining soil and does not usually require additional fertilizers if repotted when it doubles in size.
Common names
Alpine Totara, Snow Totara, Mountain Totara, Mountain, Snow TtaraHow to care for Alpine Totara
Water
Alpine Totara should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Alpine Totara loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Alpine Totara prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Fertilizer
The Alpine Totara is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Region of origin
Alpine Totara’s native range is New Zealand.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Podocarpus Genus
Podocarpus neriifolius Brown Pine
Podocarpus henkelii Falcate Yellowwood
Podocarpus macrophyllus Buddhist Pine
Podocarpus salignus Willow Leaf Podocarp
Podocarpus elatus Brown Pine
Podocarpus totara Totara
Podocarpus nubigenus Cloud Podocarp
Podocarpus latifolius Broad Leaved Yellowwood
Podocarpus laetus Hall's Totara
