The genus of Podocarpus consists of about 100 species of evergreen, coniferous trees and shrubs. They have dark green, leathery, elongated leaves, or, as in the well-loved Totara, smaller, needle-like, olive green to yellow leaves. They make excellent specimen trees for gardens that have the space to show them off to best effect, or shrubby borders or hedging plants. Commercially they are highly valued for their timber which is used extensively in Maori carvings.  

Podocarpus is a characteristic tree of the Antarctic flora, which originated in the cool, moist climate of southern Gondwana, and elements of the flora survive in the humid temperate regions of the former supercontinent. As the continents drifted north and became drier and hotter, Podocarps and other members of the Antarctic flora generally retreated to humid regions, especially in Australia and New Zealand. 

The Podocarpus species that we stock prefer a well-drained soil in a sunny position, with some protection from cold winds. They need moisture whilst young but once established they will tolerate dry periods. Podocarpus totara, the most widely grown species in New Zealand is a long-lived, slow growing tree that has a dense, rounded crown, giant trunk and grows to 8 – 10m under cultivation. Podocarpus henkelii is a South African beauty which is highly prized for its exquisite 'yellow wood'.

The name is synonymous with strength and durability due to the fact that it can reach a great age and size - in the forest setting it can reach 30m. The Golden Totara (Podocarpus aurea)  is a smaller, slower growing tree, very well suited to hedging,  which has leaves that become a lovely golden yellow as they age.



 

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