Pine of the Mountain
Podocarpus parlatorei
Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery
A conifer of mist and mountains, Podocarpus parlatorei comes from isolated cloud-forest ridges just east of the Andes in Bolivia and northwestern Argentina. Rare in the wild and scarcely seen in cultivation, this CITES-listed species represents one of the most unusual evergreen introductions ever offered by Woodlanders.
The Plant & Its Habitat
Native to scattered high-elevation forests between roughly 1,000–3,000 meters, Podocarpus parlatorei grows in humid montane environments where cool air, persistent mist, and sharp drainage define the ecosystem. These forests are biologically rich but geographically fragmented—one reason this species remains uncommon and protected under international trade agreements (CITES).
In habitat, the tree can reach 40–60 feet or more, forming a narrow, upright to conical crown. In cultivation, especially in warmer temperate regions, it is expected to develop more modestly, maintaining a composed and vertical habit.
The foliage is distinctive: narrow, elongated, leathery leaves arranged alternately along the stems, deep green and subtly glossy. Unlike needle-bearing northern conifers, podocarps produce flattened, strap-like leaves—giving the plant a refined, almost yew-like appearance but with a distinctly subtropical character.
Botanical Interest
As a member of the ancient Podocarpaceae family, Podocarpus parlatorei belongs to a Southern Hemisphere lineage dating back to Gondwanan times. Its presence in South American cloud forests reflects deep evolutionary history—making it not just a plant, but a living relic of ancient continental drift.
Like other podocarps, it produces fleshy, often colorful seed structures rather than woody cones typical of pines or spruces. These are subtle but botanically fascinating when present.
Rarity & Introduction
This species is CITES listed, reflecting its limited and vulnerable wild populations. Plants offered by Woodlanders are legally propagated and responsibly sourced.
Woodlanders is likely the first nursery to make Podocarpus parlatorei available in the United States, continuing a long tradition of introducing uncommon and botanically significant species into cultivation.
Why Grow It?
For collectors of rare conifers, botanical institutions, and adventurous gardeners, Podocarpus parlatorei offers:
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Exceptional rarity
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Strong vertical evergreen structure
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Deep evolutionary history
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A genuine cloud-forest provenance
- Hardiness
- USDA Zones 8–10
- Sun
- Full Sun, Part Shade
- Soil
- Well-drained
- Mature size
- Height 25–50 Feet · Spread 15–20 Feet
- Growth rate
- Slow
From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.
Because most of our plants are grown from rooted cuttings — alongside seed, air layering, and grafting chosen for each variety — you receive a stronger, true-to-type plant that establishes quickly in your garden.
Raised on organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management — never harsh chemicals — your plant arrives healthy for your garden, your family, and the pollinators they feed.
Every purchase gives back. We donate to the Aiken Arboretum and support local wildlife conservation, so growing your garden helps protect the wider ecosystem too.
All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.
Your plant arrives carefully packed and ready to settle in. Unpack them promptly, give them a day or two to acclimate, then plant following the notes we include — that’s all it takes. Clear care guidance comes with every order, so success is the easy part.
What to expect upon delivery
All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.
Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?
Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?
We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?
At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.
Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.