tōtara-kiri-kōtukutuku

Podocarpus laetus | mountain tōtara, Hall’s tōtara, thin-barked tōtara, tōtara-kiri-kōtukutuku

Smaller and hardier than the common tōtara, this elegant evergreen boasts distinctive thin, papery bark and longer leaves when young. Perfect for hedging, it flourishes in sunny, well-drained conditions and withstands frost, exposed locations, and coastal environments, though young plants appreciate protection. Its yellow-green catkins, appearing from mid-spring to early summer, are a valuable pollen source for bees. Highly adaptable to diverse soils, including poor and sandy ones, as well as coastal sites, it's a versatile garden choice. Small flowers develop into attractive red berries that entice birds with their nectar throughout spring and summer. This species makes a lovely specimen tree and is also excellent for revegetation projects.