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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Podocarpus macrophyllus, commonly known as the Buddhist Pine or Japanese Yew, is a refined, versatile evergreen conifer native to southern Japan and China. Despite being a conifer, it lacks the typical needle-like foliage, instead producing elegant, glossy, dark green leaves that are long, narrow, and arranged in graceful spirals along upright stems. With a naturally columnar or pyramidal shape, Podocarpus lends itself well to topiary, bonsai, hedging, or as a striking specimen in containers. It has long been cultivated in temple gardens, hence the name Buddhist Pine, and is revered for its calm, formal aesthetic and adaptability. When grown indoors, it offers a clean, architectural look somewhat resembling a mix between a yew and a broadleaf shrub and it tolerates pruning well, making it easy to manage in both small and large spaces. Unlike true pines, it produces small fleshy fruits rather than cones, and while it has a slow-to-moderate growth rate, its elegant presence makes it a plant of quiet sophistication. Podocarpus macrophyllus is well-suited to modern interiors, patios, and gardens, thriving in both sun and part shade with minimal fuss.
Indoors: Prefers bright, indirect light. Tolerates medium light, though growth may slow.
Outdoors: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Too much shade may reduce density.
Direct sunlight: Can tolerate full sun once acclimated, especially outdoors.
Ideal temperature: 1624C (6075F)
Hardiness: Hardy down to around 5C (23F) outdoors (RHS H4); best kept frost-free in pots
Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity. Not fussy but prefers good air circulation.
Watering frequency: Allow the top 35 cm of soil to dry before watering.
Indoors: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Outdoors: Water deeply but less frequently once established.
Tip: Avoid letting the plant dry out completely, especially in containers.
Soil type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil is ideal. Use a loam-based compost (e.g. John Innes No. 2 or 3) with added grit for drainage.
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.57.0)
Repotting: Every 23 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Growing season (springsummer): Feed every 46 weeks with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser or liquid feed.
Autumnwinter: Feeding can be reduced or paused during dormancy.
Pruning: Responds well to pruning. Trim to shape in spring or summer.
Maintenance: Can be trained as a small tree, compact shrub, or even clipped into a formal hedge or bonsai.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate typically around 1530 cm per year under good conditions.
Semi-hardwood cuttings: Take in late summer and root in a warm, humid environment.
Seeds: Can be grown from seed, but germination is slow and variable.
Note: Cultivated varieties often perform better than seed-grown plants.
Generally pest-free: May occasionally suffer from scale insects or spider mites in dry indoor conditions.
Resistant to: Most common plant diseases; very low-maintenance.
Leaf yellowing or drop: Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
Toxicity: Not considered highly toxic, but ingestion of seeds or plant material is not recommended, especially for pets or children.
Pet-safe tip: While not severely toxic, best to keep out of reach of nibblers.
An excellent plant for formal gardens, minimalist interiors, or Zen-inspired spaces.
Makes a superb container plant ideal for entrances, patios, and courtyards.
Adaptable to shaping: keep compact and neat, or grow tall for a dramatic indoor tree effect.
Withstands pruning and shaping much like a yew or boxwood.
Drought-tolerant once established (outdoors), but prefers consistent moisture in pots.
