Golden Totara ‘Aurea’ (Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea’)

Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea,’ commonly known as the Golden Totara, is a striking cultivar of the native New Zealand totara tree. This evergreen conifer is prized for its golden-yellow foliage, providing a vibrant and distinctive presence in gardens and landscapes.

The Golden Totara Tree is a slow-growing conifer that typically reaches 3 to 6 meters and has a compact, pyramidal, columnar shape. Its spread is generally proportional to its height, creating a well-defined and symmetrical structure. The growth habit makes it well-suited for small gardens or as a focal point in larger landscapes.

Podocarpus totara Aurea thrives in well-drained soils with good moisture retention. While it is adaptable to various soil types, including loamy and sandy soils, it performs best in soil rich in organic matter. Regular watering during dry spells is essential, but the soil should not be waterlogged.

This cultivar prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Regular soil testing can help ensure the pH is within the preferred range for optimal growth and nutrient absorption.

The Golden Totara is well-suited to cool temperate and warm temperate oceanic climates. It prefers cool to moderate temperatures and is generally unsuitable for hot or arid regions. Adequate sunlight is crucial for its health and appearance, and it performs well in locations with partial to total sun exposure.

Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea’ prefers partial to full sun. While it can tolerate some shade, exposure to direct sunlight enhances the vibrancy of its golden-yellow foliage. Providing the tree with at least 4 to 6 hours of daylight each day promotes healthy growth and maintains the striking colouration of the foliage.

Proper watering is crucial, especially during the establishment phase of Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea.’ The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the tree is established, it becomes more drought-tolerant, but regular watering and applying mulch during dry spells is recommended.

Fertilisation is generally not required in well-nourished soils. However, a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring can support healthy growth, especially in nutrient-poor soils. It’s important to note that New Zealand native plants are sensitive to phosphorus, so it’s recommended to use fertilisers designed explicitly for Australian native plants. Care should be taken not to over-fertilise, as excessive nutrients can adversely affect conifers.

Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea’ typically requires minimal pruning. Its natural form is well-balanced, and pruning may only be necessary to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Shaping the tree can be done to maintain its pyramidal to columnar structure. Pruning is best carried out in late winter or early spring during the dormant season.

Propagation of Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea’ is commonly done through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the growing season can be rooted in a well-draining propagation mix. The use of rooting hormones can enhance the success rate of cuttings. Propagation from seeds is also possible, although it may not ensure the retention of the unique characteristics of the cultivar.

The Golden Totara is highly valued for its ornamental qualities and is commonly planted as a specimen tree in gardens, parks, and larger landscapes. Its golden-yellow foliage adds a vibrant touch to the landscape, making it a standout feature. It can also be used in mixed borders or as a focal point in rock gardens.

Podocarpus totara ‘Aurea,’ the Golden Totara, is a distinctive and visually appealing cultivar that brings unique colouration to garden landscapes. Its compact size, slow growth rate, and striking foliage make it versatile for various garden settings. Providing the right growing conditions, including well-drained soil, regular watering, and appropriate sunlight, ensures the health and vitality of this valuable cultivar.