Family: Podocarpaceae Macrophyllus (podocarpus Family) Common Name : Common Names: podocarpus, yew podocarpus, Japanese yew, Buddhist pine Growth Rate: moderate to slow Although it has a moderate to slow rate of growth, it can become very large if left alone to grow undisturbed. A faster growth rate can be achieved with regular feeding for the first few years. Shape: upright to somewhat oval shrub Podocarps are gymnosperms like pines, spruces and cycads. They have needlelike leaves that are flat and a lustrous dark green. Native to Japan and southern China. Widely used in gardens and landscapes in compatible climates throughout the world. Pruning/ Shapping: may be trimmed or shaped into round or square columns or cones. Easy to grow: This is a tough plant which can grow very well in urban conditions and even indoors. Container Plant or even house plant. Light Exposure(s) Preferred: Shade to sun Moisture: Fertile, well drained soil preferred but yew pine is tolerant of many types except for those that are constantly wet. Salt Tolerance: High Good coastal plant; tolerates salt spray and withstands heat! Usage: Podocarpus works well in both informal and sheared hedges and as a foundation shrub. It's effective beside tall buildings, or anywhere a tall, narrow specimen is needed. Because of shade tolerance, makes an ideal courtyard tree. Some grand, ancient podocarps grace the heights of 3-story courtyards in New Orleans. Height : 20-30 feet Hardiness Zone(s) Preferred: 7+-11 Podocarpus zones: 7-11 As an indoor plant : Any zone