Habitat and Location: 
Podocarpus lawrencii is native to the alpine and subalpine regions of Tasmania and southeastern Australia. This hardy shrub grows in high-altitude environments, often found on rocky slopes, in open heathlands, and along the edges of forests. Adapted to withstand cold temperatures and high winds, it is well-suited to cooler climates and can tolerate frost and occasional snow cover in the UK.
 
Description: 
Podocarpus lawrencii is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree known for its compact, dense foliage and attractive form. Its narrow, needle-like leaves are a rich green, occasionally tinged with red or bronze in colder weather. In spring, female plants produce small, plum-like purple to black fruits, which provide a food source for local wildlife in its native habitat. Male plants, on the other hand, bear small, inconspicuous cones.
 
With its low-maintenance nature and tolerance to pruning, Podocarpus lawrencii is often used in bonsai cultivation and makes an excellent, compact ornamental shrub for hardy tropical gardens.
 
Care Instructions: 
Podocarpus lawrencii should be grown in a cool to cold greenhouse, conservatory or outside, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils, though it can adapt to a range of soil types. Water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once established, it is quite drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.
 
Maintain an intermediate to cool environment, with ideal daytime temperatures of 10-20 degrees Celsius and nighttime temperatures between -5 and 16 degrees Celsius, it is frost-hardy. Fertilize in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support growth. This species requires little maintenance but can be lightly pruned to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
 
Specifications:
Plant Size: Typically reaches 1-2 meters in height, these established plants are 35 cm
Family: Podocarpaceae
Plant Passport: A Podocarpus lawrencii B 140084 c 13588 d GB