Species Tasmanian podocarp

Tasmanian podocarp

Podocarpus alpinus

The Tasmanian podocarp (Podocarpus alpinus) is endemic to Tasmania, Australia. This evergreen conifer has a characteristic intertwined, bushy foliage, complemented by its tight yet symmetrical pyramidal shape. It is able to reach heights of up to 12m and widths of 5m, with dense rounded lush foliage. Tasmanian podocarp produces green cylindrical cones with a noticeable bud on top, and creamy white flowers with amazing colored and aromatic foliage, especially during seasons of new growth. Its ability to thrive in well drained, sandy soils sets it apart, and makes it an ideal candidate for hedging and screening purposes.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

7

Sun:

Filtered shade, Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Tasmanian Podocarp prefers well-drained soil and needs to be watered regularly for optimal growth. It should be watered 1-2 times a week during its growing season and once every 10-14 days during its dormant season. When watering, it’s important to avoid overwatering and flooding the soil as the Tasmanian Podocarp is sensitive to excessive moisture. To ensure it gets the amount of water it needs, check the soil prior to watering; it should be damp enough for the roots to take in the water but not too wet. To help keep the soil moist, use mulch around the base of the plant.

sunlight

Tasmanian podocarp requires full sunlight for proper growth and must be planted in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. This species of plant generally thrives in sunnier locations that receive more than 8 hours of direct sunlight a day. The daily duration of sunlight exposure should be highest in spring and summer, and the Tasmanian podocarp prefers to receive more sunlight than shade throughout the year.

pruning

Tasmanian podocarp (Podocarpus alpinus) should generally be pruned during the spring season to maintain desired size and shape. Any large branches and dead or broken limbs should also be removed during this time. Pruning in the summer season should be kept to a minimum. To create a symmetrical shape, small branches can be removed at their point of origin and thinning can be done to open up the branch structure to allow more light. Only prune healthy, non-blooming plants and take care to avoid over-pruning, which can cause undue stress to the plant.

Hardiness Map