Athrotaxis laxifolia

Common Name: Summit Cedar

Description:
The Summit Cedar (Athrotaxis laxifolia) is a rare and highly ornamental evergreen conifer native to the high-altitude regions of Tasmania. It is known for its dense, bushy growth habit, soft, needle-like foliage, and unique hybrid characteristics that combine traits of its close relatives, Athrotaxis cupressoides and Athrotaxis selaginoides. Its foliage is deep green, forming an attractive conical to irregular shape over time. Preferring cool, temperate climates, it thrives in well-drained, moist soils and is highly frost-tolerant. Slow-growing and long-lived, this Tasmanian native is ideal for collectors, feature planting in cool-climate gardens, or as part of a mixed woodland setting.

Form:

• Tree - Medium

Mature Size:

• Height: 10–15 m
• Width: 4–6 m

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Does not flower (produces cones instead)

Flower Colour:

• N/A (produces small, woody cones)

Key Attributes:

• Australian Native
• Frost Hardy
• Disease Resistant
• Suitable for Feature Planting
• Long-Lived & Slow-Growing

Toxicity:

• Not known to be toxic to humans or animals

Companion Plants:

• Other cool-climate conifers such as Athrotaxis cupressoides, Cedrus, and Picea species
• Native Tasmanian species like Nothofagus cunninghamii (Myrtle Beech)
• Underplanting with ferns and shade-loving perennials for a naturalistic setting