Podocarpus nivalis

Extraordinarily adaptable, this Podocarpus nivalis descended from the New Zealand mountains, is one of the hardiest in its genus. This little evergreen shrub, which is underutilized in our gardens, forms a somewhat bushy, overall dark olive green, dense and fluffy mass, with a spreading or bushy habit. It thrives in dense shade as well as in the sun, is not very demanding in terms of soil type, and tolerates summer drought once well established, although it appreciates water for its development. Its small size allows it to fit into small gardens or gracefully cascade from the top of a rockery. Definitely worth a try!

Podocarpus nivalis is an evergreen conifer in the Podocarpaceae family, native to the scrubby and subalpine areas of the New Zealand mountains. In its natural environment, and depending on its habitat, it can reach up to 5 m (16ft) in height under favourable conditions, while in lowland areas, in our gardens, it rarely exceeds 2 m (7ft) in height after many years. It will eventually form a dense shrub which is a little wider than tall. Its low, ascending branches bear twigs covered with small, oblong, leathery, olive green leaves with a glaucous sheen. They are grouped in fours and emerge above the numerous branches. The plant sporadically produces some pale yellow male cones and a few female cones that turn red at maturity.

This little-known or forgotten shrub will find its place in a small garden as a group or ideally in a rockery. Its natural appearance, which rivals that of the indestructible Microbiota decussata, blends well in slightly wild gardens, alongside taller flowering shrubs, which it will conceal at the base. It works wonders planted as a small, informal hedge which can also be methodically pruned. In dense shade or in the sun, it pairs well with large stones, geometric lines, and architectural structures. It can be combined with grasses or bamboo to create a more refined ambiance. The true geometric qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over many different flowers. These structural plants can enhance a bed, mark pathways, decorate patios or balconies, happily substituting trimmed boxwood or holly. The key is to play with volumes and colours.

Idea for colour combinations:

- Complementary shades: gold, burgundy, purple, variegated foliage.

- Matching shades: silver, dark green, blue.