Podocarpus Maki

Podocarpus maki macrophyllus var. maki, or Shrubby Yew Podocarpus, is a slow-growing, dense evergreen conifer from Japan and China, valued for its narrow, upright form and dark green, needle-like foliage, making it ideal for hedges, screens, or topiaries in USDA zones 7–11. It tolerates full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil, is drought-tolerant once established, and is deer-resistant. This versatile plant is low-maintenance and can be used as a vertical accent, foundation plant, or container specimen.

Key Characteristics

• Appearance: Dense, upright, pyramidal habit with narrow, lance-shaped, dark green leaves.
• Size: Typically grows 8–15 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, but can be kept smaller with pruning.
• Growth Rate: Slow.
• Foliage: Evergreen, fragrant when crushed, with leaves 1–3 inches long.
• Fruit: Female plants produce small, fleshy, bluish-purple fruits that are poisonous if eaten.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
• Water: Regular water, but drought-tolerant once established; avoid wet soils.
• Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil, but is adaptable.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–11.