Yew Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophyllus)

Yew Podocarpus

Categories: Evergreen Trees, Slow, Zone 10, Zone 11, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9

$69.95

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Table of Contents

What is Yew Podocarpus

The Yew Podocarpus is a low-maintenance plant with soft, green foliage and hardy nature. Easily pruned, you can decide whether it will grow as a large shrub or a small tree! Amongst the foliage, the plant also produces blue female cones that turn into blue berries that attract birds in the summer.

Despite its name, the Yew Podocarpus is not a member of the yew genus, Taxus. Part of the Podocarpus genus, it’s often mistaken for a yew due to its needle-like leaves, berries, and name. The Yew Podocarpus is a highly adaptable tree that can survive many conditions and requires minimal maintenance.

Perhaps the most significant feature of the Yew Podocarpus is how naturally it takes to pruning. You can prune the plant in just about any shape, even working as bonsais or espaliers. Most gardeners grow the plant as a hedge, thanks to its dense growth. It works well as a windbreak, privacy hedge, and border between properties.

The Yew Podocarpus also works well in containers and small spaces as a tall accent, since it has a narrow root system. If left untrimmed, the plant naturally has a pointed shape and upright branch growth. With enough room, it can even appear spruce-like.

The Yew Podocarpus was hand-selected and cultivated by our team of plant experts, and you can expect a hardy, beautiful plant ready for planting.

How to Grow and Care for Yew Podocarpus

Yew Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophyllus) Growing requirements

Hardiness zone

7, 8, 9, 10, 11

Planting Instructions

They’re adaptable, resistant to disease, pests and more, but your Yew Podocarpus needs proper care to thrive.

First, choose an area with at least 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. After scouting the location for your Yew, dig a hole that’s at least two to three times wider than your tree’s root ball. Once you’ve placed your Podocarpus, back fill its soil, tamp down to avoid air pockets and then water to help establish its roots.

Watering

It’s moderately drought tolerant, but regular waterings are important (one or two thorough waterings weekly) for the first few growing seasons to establish the Yew’s root system. If you’re not sure when to water your Yew, simply check the surrounding soil, down to around 2 or 3 inches. If your tree’s soil is dry, it’s time to water it.

Once it’s established, you can reduce frequency, but somewhat regular watering is important (depending on your soil needs, once a week should be fine).

Fertilizing

The Yew Podocarpus is slow growing, so it benefits from fertilizer. Feed your tree with a well-balanced formula in early spring, before new growth emerges.

Pruning

Prune your Yew Podocarpus Tree annually for your desired shape or landscape needs.

Yew Podocarpus (Podocarpus macrophyllus) Details

Common name	Yew Podocarpus
Botanical name	Podocarpus macrophyllus
Plant type	Evergreen Trees
Growth Rate	Slow
Hardiness Zone	Zone 10, Zone 11, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
Height	12-20 ft.
Width	6-8 ft.