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Alpine Totara

Podocarpus Nivalis

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Overview

The Alpine Totara (Podocarpus nivalis) is an evergreen conifer, ideal for adding texture and year-round interest to landscapes. Maturing at 3-6.5 feet tall with a spread of 6-10 feet, it thrives in USDA zones 7-9, preferring well-drained soils and full to partial sun. Its dense, low-growing habit and silver-green foliage make it an excellent ground cover or border plant, exuding a rugged elegance while requiring minimal maintenance.

Sun FullWater Extra in Summer, LowZones 9–10Climate Temperate

Culture

Sun
Full
Water
Extra in Summer, Low
USDA zones
9–10

Shape & size

Classification

Family
Podocarpaceae
Climate
Temperate

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Photos (51)

Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — Maturing at 3-6.5 feet tall with a spread of 6-10 feet
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — The Alpine Totara (Podocarpus nivalis) is an evergreen conifer
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — preferring well-drained soils and full to partial sun
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — ideal for adding texture and year-round interest to landscapes
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — it thrives in USDA zones 7-9
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — scientifically known as Podocarpus nivalis
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — low-growing habit and silver-green foliage make it an excellent ground cover or border plant
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — exuding a rugged elegance while requiring minimal maintenance
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — Originating from New Zealand
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — withstanding temperatures down to 10°F
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — The plant typically reaches a mature height of 3 to 5 feet
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — this dwarf conifer thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 7-8
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — from bright green shoots in spring to hues of blue-green in summer
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — often with a bronze tint in colder months
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — exhibiting a slow growth rate.<br><br>Its needle-like foliage offers an array of colors through seasons
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — with a spread of 2 to 4 feet over several years
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — This color variation allows the Alpine Totara to provide dynamic visual interest
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — <br><br>Podocarpus nivalis prefers well-drained soils and is relatively low-maintenance once established
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — It performs best in full sun to partial shade
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — adaptable to a range of soil types but favors neutral to slightly acidic pH levels
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — <br><br>This plant is especially suited for rock gardens, alpine plantings, or as low hedging
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — its compact size is excellent for creating a natural
Alpine Totara (Podocarpus Nivalis) — the Alpine Totara is known for its resistance to pests and diseases

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