Podocarpus Totara Matapouri Blue
Podocarpus totara ‘Matapouri Blue’
Common Names: Totara, Matapouri Blue Totara
Family: Podocarpaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Tree
Overview:
Podocarpus totara ‘Matapouri Blue’ is a striking native conifer known for its beautiful blue-grey foliage and graceful, spreading habit. This cultivar combines the traditional strength and longevity of Totara with a unique silvery-blue leaf colour that adds distinctive texture and colour to landscapes. Ideal for specimen planting, hedging, or native reforestation projects.
Key Features:
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Foliage: Soft, blue-grey needles with a dense, layered appearance; evergreen.
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Flowers / Fruit: Produces fleshy, red berry-like cones attractive to native birds.
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Form & Habit: Medium to large tree with a broad, spreading, pyramidal form.
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Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
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Cultural & Ecological Value: Highly significant in Māori culture; provides habitat and food for native wildlife.
Mature Size:
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 15 m |
| Spread | 6–8 m |
| Form | Broad, spreading, pyramidal |
Ideal Growing Conditions:
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Water | Moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained, fertile soils |
| pH Range | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Frost Tolerance | Hardy to approx. –8 °C |
Landscaping & Garden Uses:
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Specimen or feature tree in large gardens and parks
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Native and restoration planting projects
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Windbreaks and screening
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Heritage and cultural landscapes
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Wildlife habitat gardens
Care & Maintenance:
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Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or crossing branches as required.
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Watering: Regular watering during establishment; drought tolerant when mature.
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Feeding: Apply slow-release fertiliser in spring for optimal growth.
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Pests & Diseases: Generally pest and disease resistant.
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Additional Tips: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight:
Totara wood is traditionally prized by Māori for carving waka (canoes) and building whare (houses) due to its durability and strength.
Why Choose Podocarpus totara ‘Matapouri Blue’?
Its unique blue foliage, cultural significance, and robust growth make Podocarpus totara ‘Matapouri Blue’ a standout choice for gardeners seeking a native tree with striking beauty and heritage value.
Pot Size:
These are our large size in 9cm square pots.
Pot Size:
Standard Pot = 7cm Square
Large Pot = 9cm Square
Extra Large Pot = 1.5L Round
Use this guide to see how many plants of your selected pot size fit into a half or full carton.
Standard Pot = 25 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 10 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 5 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Standard Pot = 50 plants per Carton
Large Pot= 25 plants per Carton
Extra Large Pot = 10 plants per Carton
Urban- $16.55 per Carton Rural- $23.85 per Carton
Product Size:
The photo next to the ruler shows an example of the plant for sale (cm's) to give an indication of the size. Please note that the photo is for reference only; the size and appearance of the plant may vary.
Please Note:
Shipping charge applies. Available for immediate dispatch only, while stocks last.
