Podocarpus macrophyllus subsp. maki (Chinese Podocarpus)

Podocarpus macrophyllus subsp. maki (Chinese Podocarpus) is a slow-growing, densely compact evergreen conifer shrub or tree of narrow, upright habit, with leathery, lustrous, waxy dark green needles, 3 in. long (7 cm), arranged in spirals. The foliage is pleasantly fragrant when bruised or crushed. Small fleshy olive-green berry-like cones are produced. They ripen in the second year to purple. Adaptable to most soils, Podocarpus macrophyllus subsp. maki makes a large hedge or screen, a great topiary plant or a nice specimen plant where winter hardy. One of the best container plants for indoor or outdoor use.

• Slowly grows up to 8-15 ft. tall (240-450 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-120 cm). Can be kept smaller through regular pruning
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained, fertile soils. Tolerant of shade, salt, and drought. Intolerant of wet soils.
• No serious pest or disease issues. May develop chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves) in alkaline soils. Deer resistant.
• Adapts well to pruning and can be sculpted into any shape. Often used for topiary.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Male Podocarpus spp. are highly allergenic with a top OPALS allergy-scale rating of 10. In contrast, entirely female Podocarpus plants score a low OPALS rating of 1, capturing pollen without producing any, making them “allergy-fighting”.
• Native to Southern China, Japan.