Kahuroa · Public domain
About
This species, *Podocarpus hex*, is part of the widely distributed genus *Podocarpus*, known for its evergreen habit and large, often brightly colored, fleshy cones that attract birds for seed dispersal. It is a characteristic tree of the humid temperate regions of former Gondwana.
Field notes
Morphology
The leaves are simple, flattened, and typically linear-lanceolate or linear-elliptic, arranged spirally and may be subopposite on some shoots. They are coriaceous and feature a distinct midrib. The cones are highly modified, developing from axillary buds, and consist of two to five fused scales forming a succulent, brightly colored receptacle. Each cone generally carries only one seed, which is covered by a fleshy modified scale called an epimatium.
Distribution & habitat
The natural distribution of the genus is vast, covering much of Africa, Asia, Australia, Central and South America, and several South Pacific islands. The species are found in temperate forests, with some occurring in tropical highlands.
Cultivation notes
Species are cultivated as ornamental plants for parks and large gardens.
History & etymology
The name comes from Greek πούς poús meaning "foot" and καρπός karpós meaning "fruit".
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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