Description
Podocarpus macrophyllus – Tall, Elegant Columnar Japanese Yew
Botanical Name: Podocarpus macrophyllus
Common Name: Japanese Yew, Buddhist Pine
Plant Type: Evergreen Tree / Shrub
Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-Drained, Loamy, Sandy, or Clay Soil
Hardiness Zones: 7-11
Growth Habit: Upright, Narrow, Columnar Form
Bloom Time: Non-Flowering
Mature Size: 15-25 ft. tall, 4-6 ft. wide
Why Choose Podocarpus macrophyllus in Columnar Form?
Podocarpus macrophyllus is a versatile, evergreen tree known for its tall, columnar growth, dense dark green foliage, and adaptability. This low-maintenance and drought-tolerant species is perfect for privacy screens, tall hedges, and vertical garden accents. It maintains a neat, structured form with little pruning, making it an excellent alternative to Italian cypress in humid or coastal climates.
Key Features
- Tall, Narrow Growth: Perfect for privacy screens and vertical landscape elements.
- Dense, Dark Green Foliage: Provides a lush, refined look year-round.
- Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care once established.
- Non-Invasive Roots: Safe for planting near foundations and walkways.
- Adaptable to Urban & Coastal Climates: Tolerates pollution and salt exposure.
Ideal Uses in Landscaping
This elegant columnar tree is ideal for modern landscapes, formal gardens, and urban plantings where a tall, narrow, evergreen presence is needed.
Perfect for:
- Privacy screens and hedges
- Vertical accents in modern landscapes
- Low-maintenance foundation plantings
- Urban and narrow-space plantings
- Coastal and drought-tolerant gardens
Care Instructions
- Watering: Low to moderate; deep watering during establishment improves drought tolerance.
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade for best growth.
- Soil: Adaptable to well-drained loamy, sandy, or clay soils.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning required; can be shaped for a more formal look.
- Cold Tolerance: Hardy in zones 7-11, tolerating mild frost.
Pro Tip: For a dense, uniform hedge, plant multiple Podocarpus macrophyllus trees 4-6 feet apart and trim lightly as they grow.
