Water
Water consistently, especially when young and during dry periods. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Also known as Alpine Totara
Snow totara (Podocarpus nivalis) is a low-growing, hardy conifer native to New Zealand's mountains, forming dense mats with needle-like foliage.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow top layer to dry between waterings.
Well-drained, acidic to neutral
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Hardy in cooler temperate climates. Protect from extreme heat and frost when very young.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season (spring/summer) with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, especially when young and during dry periods. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Prune lightly in late spring or early summer after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stimulate excessive, weak growth.
Pinching back new growth can encourage a bushier habit.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Use a rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining, moist medium. Maintain high humidity and warmth.
Seeds can be sown in autumn, but germination can be slow and erratic.
Repot young plants every 2-3 years in spring before new growth begins. Mature plants need repotting less frequently, perhaps every 4-5 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Snow Totara (Podocarpus nivalis)
Where Snow Totara (Podocarpus nivalis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus | Podocarpus |
| Species | Podocarpus nivalis |
Similar in genus Podocarpus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
