Podocarpus / Japanese Yew Pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus)

Podocarpus is a clean, evergreen landscape favorite known for its dense, deep-green foliage and its ability to be shaped into hedges, privacy screens, or elegant specimen forms. It has a refined, “designer” look—great for modern landscapes—and performs well in warm climates with good drainage. It’s also popular for entryways and along fences because it trims beautifully and stays green year-round.

Ideal for: privacy hedges, screens, foundation plantings, entryways, formal landscapes, and low-maintenance evergreen structure.

🌿 Plant Features

Botanical Name: Podocarpus macrophyllus
Common Name: Podocarpus, Japanese Yew Pine, Buddhist Pine
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or tree (conifer-like broadleaf evergreen)
Foliage: Narrow, leathery, deep-green leaves; dense and tidy texture
Growth Habit: Upright, columnar to pyramidal; easily pruned into hedges or shapes
Mature Size:

As a hedge (maintained): typically 6–15 ft tall (depending on pruning)
Unpruned/tree form: can reach 20–40+ ft over time in warm climates
Growth Rate: Moderate
Visual Style: Clean, formal, evergreen structure plant
USDA Zones: 7–11 (best in warmer zones; protect from hard freezes)

🪴 Care & Maintenance Guide

🌞 Light

Best: Full sun to partial shade
Tip: In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can help prevent stress
Avoid: Deep shade (slower growth, thinner foliage)

💧 Watering

Water regularly during establishment (first 8–12 weeks)
Once established: moderately drought tolerant
For hedges/screens: consistent watering helps it stay dense and lush
Tip: Let the top few inches of soil dry slightly between waterings

🪨 Soil

Prefers well-draining soil
Tolerates many soil types, but dislikes soggy/wet feet
Add compost when planting for stronger root establishment

🌡️ Temperature & Wind

Heat tolerant once established
Protect young plants from strong winds and hard freezes if applicable

🌿 Fertilization

Feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer (optional)
For faster hedge growth, a second light feeding in summer can help
Avoid over-fertilizing late season

✂️ Pruning

Prune 2–4 times per year for tight hedges (as needed)
For a natural screen, light trimming maintains shape and density
Tip: Start shaping early for the best hedge structure

⚠️ Common Issues

Yellowing: overwatering/poor drainage or transplant shock
Sparse growth: not enough sun or inconsistent trimming
Browning tips: underwatering, heat stress, or wind burn
Pests: generally hardy; occasional scale—treat early if detected

📦 What You’ll Receive

One healthy Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophyllus) in a nursery pot
Natural variations in height, branching, and fullness are normal
Minor cosmetic marks may occur from normal growing/handling

✅ Acclimation Tip

After delivery, place outdoors in bright shade or morning sun for 2–4 days before moving into full sun. Water deeply after transplanting, then keep soil evenly moist for the first few weeks while roots establish.