Podocarpus laetus explained

Podocarpus laetus is a species of conifer in the family Podocarpaceae, commonly known as Hall's tōtara, mountain tōtara or thin-barked tōtara. Previously known as Podocarpus hallii and Podocarpus cunninghamii,[1] in 2015 it was realised that the much earlier name P. laetus has priority.[2] Its common name results from the species being named after J. W. Hall, a New Zealand pharmacist.[3]

It is found only in New Zealand. It can be found growing in both montane and subalpine forests but less common in lowland forests.

P. laetus is distinguished from the more widely known lowland tōtara by its thinner bark,[4] longer juvenile leaves and distribution at higher altitudes.[5] [6]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: www.conifers.org .
  2. Brian Molloy, 'The correct name for the New Zealand endemic conifer Hall's totara (Araucariales: Podocarpaceae)'. Phytotaxa 220(2) . Phytotaxa . 220 . 2 . 101 . 10.11646/phytotaxa.220.2.1 . 2015 . Molloy . Brian .
  3. Book: Eagle, Audrey. Eagle's complete trees and shrubs of New Zealand volume one. Te Papa Press. 2008. 9780909010089. Wellington. 12. English.
  4. Web site: Hall's tōtara. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand. 21 August 2012.
  5. Web site: Podocarpus cunningham (Hall's totara). Taranaki Educational Resource: Research, Analysis and Information Network. 21 August 2012.
  6. Web site: TOTARA. Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand. 21 August 2012.

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