About Lepidothamnus laxifolius (Hook.f.) Quinn
This species, scientifically known as Lepidothamnus laxifolius (Hook.f.) Quinn, has a scrambling, prostrate growth habit. Fruit-producing individuals as small as 8 cm in height have been observed. Its branches can reach up to 5 mm in diameter and 1 metre in length. Its cones are red, fleshy, and grow at the tips of horizontal branches. Seeds are dark brown, growing on red fleshy scales. Lepidothamnus laxifolius is thought to be the smallest conifer in the world, and it rarely grows larger than a small low-growing shrub. This species is a specialist high alpine plant, found in high-altitude bog communities and scrub, where it is often found growing alongside Halocarpus bidwillii and Podocarpus nivalis. Documented locations where it occurs include Tongariro National Park and Arthur's Pass. On Stewart Island, it can be found in both lowland and montane areas.
