Totara, Needle-leaved

Podocarpus acutifolius

$34.00
1 Gallon USDA Zones 8–10 Full Sun and Part Shade Matures 3–5 Feet

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

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Roots wrapped in moist soil and padded for safe transit
Grown and shipped from our nursery in Aiken, SC
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The Full Story

A refined and rarely offered evergreen from New Zealand, Podocarpus acutifolius forms a dense, finely textured silhouette with short, sharp-tipped leaves that give it a crisp, architectural presence. Heat-tolerant and well-suited to the southern United States when properly sited, this uncommon conifer offers structure, restraint, and year-round depth in the landscape.

The Plant

Commonly known as Needle-leaved Tōtara, Podocarpus acutifolius is native to New Zealand’s South Island, where it inhabits well-drained slopes, rocky outcrops, and forest margins. Unlike the towering tōtara trees of its homeland, this species typically forms a compact, dense shrub or small tree, with a tight branching habit and naturally composed form.

The foliage is distinctive: short, narrow, and sharply pointed, typically under an inch long. Leaves are arranged alternately along slender stems, creating a layered, finely textured effect. Their deep green coloration holds beautifully through heat and humidity, and the subtle gloss adds quiet sophistication without flash.

Up close, the leaves reveal their defining feature—the acute tip that gives the species its name. The effect is crisp but not coarse, making it particularly effective in modern or restrained planting schemes.

Photo: University of British Columbia Botanical Garden, Vancouver, June 2023). Image John Grimshaw
Will this plant thrive in your zone?

Plant Profile
At a glance
Hardiness
USDA Zones 8–10
Sun
Full Sun, Part Shade
Soil
Well-drained
Mature size
Height 3–5 Feet · Spread 3–5 Feet
Growth rate
Moderate
Seasonality
Evergreen
Flower, Fruit & Foliage

Flowers

  • Appearance: As a conifer, Podocarpus acutifolius does not produce traditional flowers. Instead, it develops reproductive structures in the form of inconspicuous, cone-like structures.
  • Seasonality: Male cones release pollen in spring, while female cones mature to produce ornamental, fleshy, purple-black seed structures that may attract birds.

Foliage

  • Appearance: The foliage consists of narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are leathery and glossy. Each leaf measures about 1–3 inches long and is deep green, creating a fine-textured and elegant appearance.
  • Arrangement: Leaves grow alternately along the stems, forming dense, upright growth that contributes to the tree’s conical shape.
  • Texture: Smooth and slightly rigid, giving a polished, refined look to the plant.
  • Evergreen Habit: Retains its foliage year-round, providing consistent greenery and structure to the landscape.
Care

Read our full care guide

Planting Requirements

  • Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun is ideal for dense foliage and optimal growth, though it tolerates partial shade in warmer climates.
  • Soil: Thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adaptable to sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. Avoid heavy clay soils prone to waterlogging.
  • Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate to allow for root establishment.

Watering

  • Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system.
  • Once established, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering, especially during dry spells.

Fertilization

  • Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring to support healthy growth.
  • Mulch around the base with organic material to conserve moisture and improve soil quality.

Pruning

  • Prune lightly to shape the plant or control size as needed. Best done in late winter or early spring.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth and improve airflow.

Growth Habit and Size

  • Grows as an upright, conical evergreen shrub or small tree, with a slow to moderate growth rate.
  • Reaches a mature height of 15–30 feet and a width of 5–10 feet, making it suitable for hedges, privacy screens, or specimen planting.

Pests and Diseases

  • Generally pest-free and disease-resistant. Occasionally, scale insects or spider mites may occur; treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if needed.
  • Proper spacing and good airflow help prevent fungal issues.

Special Features

  • Foliage: Narrow, lance-shaped leaves are leathery and glossy, with a rich green color. The leaves create a fine texture, giving the plant an elegant appearance.
  • Fruit: Produces small, fleshy, berry-like cones in shades of purple to black, which are ornamental and may attract birds.
  • Evergreen Habit: Maintains its lush foliage year-round, making it a reliable choice for consistent greenery.

Winter Care

  • Hardy in USDA zones 8–10. In cooler regions, protect young plants from frost by mulching the base and covering them during cold snaps.

Landscape Uses

  • Excellent for use as a formal hedge, screen, or windbreak due to its dense, upright growth.
  • Can also serve as a standalone specimen in gardens or landscapes with a need for year-round greenery.

Additional Tips

  • Avoid overwatering, as the plant is sensitive to poorly draining soils.
  • Works well in coastal gardens, as it tolerates salt spray and sandy soils.

Summary
With its fine-textured foliage, low-maintenance care, and versatility in the landscape, Podocarpus acutifolius is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a graceful and evergreen addition to their space.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

Woodlanders Growing Process

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.

Sustainable Growing Practices

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.

Supporting Local Biodiversity

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.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.
Grown in Aiken, South Carolina
At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders
Healthy plants, ready to thrive
Success, made simple
Healthy plants, ready to thrive

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.

Read the care guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
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.