Buddhist Pine

Also known as: Buddhist Pine, Yew Pine, Southern Yew

Podocarpus macrophyllus is an evergreen conifer with narrow, leathery, dark green leaves that resemble yew. It develops a dense, upright to columnar habit, often branching from the base. Male cones are catkin-like, while female trees produce fleshy, plum-like purple-blue cones (arils) on mature specimens. Its fine texture and tolerance of pruning make it a versatile ornamental for both formal and relaxed settings.

Scientific classification

Species: Buddhist Pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus)
Genus: Podocarpus
Family: Podocarpaceae

All parts, especially the fleshy aril, are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.
Toxicity: Conifers · Tree · Foliage
Plant type: 2.0 - 5.0 metres
Height: 1.5 - 3.0 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Upright · Columnar upright
Habit: Spring · Summer · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Buddhist Pine pictures

Distribution of Buddhist Pine

Distribution map

Southern China, Japan, Myanmar, Taiwan

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

All parts, especially the fleshy aril, are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets.

Quick identification of Buddhist Pine

Information to be completed

Buddhist Pine care guide

Water when soil is dry to touch, drought-tolerant once established
Watering: Full sun · Partial shade
Sunlight: 15 – 25 °C
Ideal temperature

Watering

Water when soil is dry to touch, drought-tolerant once established

Fertilizing

Monthly during growing season

Pruning

Prune in late winter or early spring to shape or remove dead branches. It responds well to hard pruning and can be trimmed into formal hedges or topiary forms.

Propagation

Semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer with bottom heat (20-25°C) root readily. Seeds can also be sown in spring after removing the fleshy aril, but germination may be slow and erratic. Layering is another reliable method for home gardeners.

Growing

Grow in moist but well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil in full sun or partial shade. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including loam and sand, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system; once established, it can tolerate short dry periods. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring. In colder regions, provide winter protection (e.g., mulch or fleece) if temperatures drop below -10°C.

More growing and care information →