Botanical name:

Lepidothamnus laxifolius

Common name(s):

Pygmy pine, mountain rimu

About:

The pygmy pine is a distinctive prostrate conifer that forms a dense mat, making it highly suitable for ground cover and also for growing over walls or within a rock garden setting. The tiny compressed leaves of this evergreen conifer may exhibit a glaucous hue or display various shades of green, adding to its aesthetic appeal. This remarkable plant is typically found from the Central Plateau southward and can thrive at elevations up to 1500 m in boggy conditions. Generally speaking, it needs a damp sunny site to flourish, but in more humid areas, it tends to prefer drier conditions for optimal growth.

Natural habitat:

High-altitude bog communities and in scrub, often in association with H. bidwillii and P. nivalis.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun & Wind tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s North, South and Stewart Island.

Height: 5cm – 1m

Fruiting/Flowering:

Pollen & Seed cones are solitary. Seed cones are held by a swollen, succulent crimson receptacle with a long, shiny brown, nut like seed.

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food, Riparian plantings & Ground cover

How to grow:

Grown from fresh seed & cuttings. Some success has been achieved using a layering technique as well. Generally it needs a damp sunny site but in humid areas it prefers drier conditions.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though