Photo of Podocarpus macrophyllus foliage, fruit by Koppchen

Photo by Koppchen

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Buy Podocarpus macrophyllus

Also Known As

  • Buddhist Pine
  • Chinese Yew
  • Shrubbery Yew Podocarpus

Plant type

tree, shrub, conifer

size

  • H: 12'-20'
  • W: 6'-8'

planting zones

  • 7a-11

9-12 inch | $36

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Fewer than 20 at Bloom River Gardens

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Podocarpus macrophyllus plant details

When selecting a columnar evergreen statement plant or privacy hedge, consider the charms of this Podocarpus. The soft leaf texture and dark reddish fruit make it a more interesting choice than the usual suspects. Plus its versatility in sun and shade allows repeating across the garden in those oh-so-compelling groups of 3, 5, or 7 for that rhythmic continuity we gardeners are so fond of in our designs. Naturally conical, it is happy to be pruned and sheared whether for bonsai or a formal hedge.

Podocarpus macrophyllus is an evergreen conifer shrub or tree with blue foliage. In spring cream flowers emerge followed by black, purple and red fruit. Attracts birds. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - occasional water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in acidic, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Podocarpus macrophyllus

Plant type: conifer shrub or tree
Plant family: podocarpaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue
Mature size: 6 FT - 8 FT - wide, 12 FT - 20 FT - tall
Flowers: cream blooms in spring
Uses: compact, self-fertile, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Podocarpus macrophyllus

USDA Zones: 7a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - occasional
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: acidic, rich and well-drained

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Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Very narrow, 3-5" long glossy dark-green leaves are arranged in dense spirals around the twigs of this vigorous, distinctive large shrub; an unusual and effective hedge or easily trained to a tall column. PSh/M
This conifer is one of the few that can be grown in lots of shade all the way to full sun. This upright plant has broad deep green needles. Great in large containers.
Long, narrow, glossy green leaves, with a prominent midrib, are arranged spirally along the stems to form a dense upright shrub or tree. Responds well to pruning and is often used as a hedge. Also known as Buddhist Pine or Yew Pine.
Beautiful soft textured deep blue-green narrow evergreen foliage on an upright to spreading large shrub or small tree that can be easily be shaped with pruning and shearing. An excellent choice for bonsai, as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen. Mature plants will produce purplish black fruit when mature. Can grow into a medium sized conical tree if left unpruned. The pulp of Podocarpus fruit considered edible but it is recommended that humans avoid ingesting the seed itself as it is considered to be poisonous but is much enjoyed by birds. Drought tolerant once established.
[Self-fruiting clone.] Shared with us some years ago by plant geek buddy, Mike Remmick, originally from his stay at the North Carolina State University Arboretum, now the JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh, NC. Though he has not been able to locate the original plant during our many trips to this fabulous institution, Mike's specimen has grown to a beautifully conical, 12' ... ok...minus one bout of falling into a creek...but it's back. This form is particularly desirable to us, not only because of its hardiness, having survived well below 0 ºF in Raleigh, but also because of its heavily powder-blue dusted foliage and quite attractive red "berries" produced with no playmates in sight. Average garden conditions; dappled shade to bright light with decent drainage. Doesn't turn down a little manure once in a while. Frost hardy to at least USDA zone 7.

Gardening facts about Podocarpus macrophyllus plant

How to Grow Podocarpus macrophyllus

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly shade
  • Water Needs

    • even moisture - occasional
  • Soil Needs

    • acidic
    • adaptable
    • well-drained
    • rich
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • blue
  • Flower Color

    • cream
  • Wildlife

    • birds
  • Fruit

    • red
    • purple
    • black
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
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