25x Needle-Leaved Tōtara - $5.99 each
Podocarpus acutifolius
Common Names: Needle-leaved Tōtara, Mountain Tōtara
Family: Podocarpaceae
Origin: New Zealand
Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub to Small Tree
Overview
Podocarpus acutifolius is a distinctive New Zealand native conifer prized for its fine, sharp-tipped foliage and naturally dense, upright growth habit. Found in subalpine and montane regions, this hardy species is exceptionally well adapted to cold, exposed sites and makes an excellent choice for tough gardens where resilience and year-round structure are important.
Key Features
Foliage: Narrow, stiff, pointed leaves in deep green, giving the plant a refined, textural appearance.
Flowers / Fruit: Small, inconspicuous flowers followed by fleshy red receptacles with dark seeds that attract native birds.
Form & Habit: Dense, upright to rounded shrub or small tree with a naturally tidy habit.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
Cultural & Ecological Value: Provides habitat and food for birds and is ideal for ecological restoration in cooler regions.
Mature Size
| Attribute | Size |
|---|---|
| Height | 3–6 m |
| Spread | 2–4 m |
| Form | Dense shrub to small tree |
Ideal Growing Conditions
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Light | Full sun to part shade |
| Water | Moderate; drought tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-drained soils, including rocky or infertile sites |
| pH Range | Acid to neutral |
| Frost Tolerance | Excellent; highly tolerant of snow and severe frost |
Landscaping & Garden Uses
- Excellent for alpine and cold-climate gardens.
- Ideal as a hardy specimen shrub or small screening plant.
- Suitable for revegetation and restoration projects.
- Provides fine texture and year-round structure in mixed native plantings.
Care & Maintenance
Pruning: Minimal pruning required; trim lightly to maintain shape if desired.
Watering: Water regularly during establishment; very hardy once established.
Feeding: Usually unnecessary, though a slow-release native fertiliser can encourage growth.
Pests & Diseases: Generally pest- and disease-free.
Additional Tips
Plant in a sunny, well-drained location for best performance. Its natural tolerance to wind, frost, and poor soils makes it an outstanding low-maintenance option for challenging sites.
Fun Fact / Botanical Insight
The species name acutifolius means “sharp-leaved,” referring to the narrow, pointed foliage that distinguishes this species from other tōtara.
Why Choose Podocarpus acutifolius?
If you need a tough, elegant native plant that thrives in harsh conditions, Podocarpus acutifolius is hard to beat. Its fine foliage, tidy form, and exceptional hardiness make it a valuable addition to both ornamental and restoration plantings.
Pot Size:
These are our standard size in 7cm 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.
