The genus Prumnopitys has only nine extant species one of which, Prumnopitys ladei, is endemic to the Atherton Tablelands. The distribution is rare with plants only found growing on the granite-derived soils of Mount Spurgeon and Mount Lewis at elevations of 1000-1200 m. Consequently, P. ladei has been included in the Rare or Threatened Australian Plants (ROTAP) list (Briggs & Leigh 1988).

The small distribution is in sharp contrast with the adaptability and hardiness of this conifer that shows great horticultural potential. Although found naturally in the wet tropics, it can be grown successfully in sub-tropical and cooler districts, such as Canberra also makes a great indoor plant specimen.