Mountain tōtara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mountain tōtara |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Podocarpus
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| Species: |
nivalis
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Podocarpus nivalis, also known as the mountain tōtara or snow tōtara, is a special type of plant called a conifer. Conifers are plants that produce cones, like pine trees. This plant belongs to the Podocarpaceae family. It is found only in New Zealand, which means it is endemic there.
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What is the Mountain Tōtara?
The mountain tōtara is a fascinating plant. It is a type of conifer, which means it produces cones instead of flowers. It's part of a plant family called Podocarpaceae. This unique plant grows only in New Zealand.
How did the Mountain Tōtara get its name?
The plant Podocarpus nivalis was first described in 1843. A scientist named W.J. Hooker drew and wrote about it. The plant was discovered on Mount Tongariro in New Zealand. It was found by William Colenso "near the limits of perpetual snow."
The name "nivalis" comes from Latin. It means "growing in or near the snow." This makes sense because it lives in cold, snowy places. Another common name for it is "alpine tōtara."
What does the Mountain Tōtara look like?
The mountain tōtara usually grows as a low, spreading shrub. It is often only 20 to 40 centimeters tall. Sometimes, it can grow a bit taller, up to 2 or 3 meters. Its branches often touch the ground and can even grow roots there. This helps it form wide, dense mats.
Leaves of the Mountain Tōtara
The leaves of this plant are thick and stiff. They grow very close together on the branches. As they get older, they turn a brownish-green color. Each leaf is small, about 3 to 10 millimeters long. They are shaped like a boat or an oval. Some leaves might curve outwards or downwards. The tips of the leaves can be blunt or have a small point.
Where does the Mountain Tōtara grow?
This plant is found in both the North Island and the South Island of New Zealand. In the North Island, you can find it south of places like Mount Hikurangi and Mount Pirongia. It thrives in the cooler, higher parts of the country.
How is the Mountain Tōtara used?
The mountain tōtara is one of the toughest podocarps from the Southern Hemisphere. It can survive very cold temperatures. For example, it has lived through minus 25 degrees Celsius (minus 13 degrees Fahrenheit) in the British Isles.
Surviving in the Snow
In its natural home, the mountain tōtara can stay under snow for long periods. It grows close to the tree line in New Zealand's high mountains. This plant needs a lot of rain to grow well. Its hardiness makes it a special plant for cold climates.
